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begrenzt
limited
Limited or restricted in number, quantity, extent, or duration.
example
Die Anzahl der Tickets für das Konzert ist streng begrenzt.
The number of tickets for the concert is strictly limited.
begrenzt
limited
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
'Begrenzt' (limited) is the past participle of the verb 'begrenzen' (to limit). The verb is derived directly from the noun 'die Grenze' (the border/limit). Something that is 'begrenzt' therefore has a clear boundary or limit.
EXAMPLE
Unsere Möglichkeiten sind durch das Budget begrenzt.
Our options are limited by the budget.
Typical collocations
In its neutral meaning, 'begrenzt' (limited) is often combined with things that can be counted or measured. Common combinations are: 'begrenzte Anzahl' (limited number), 'begrenzte Zeit' (limited time), 'begrenzte Mittel' (limited resources), or 'begrenzter Platz' (limited space).
EXAMPLE
Wir haben nur begrenzte Ressourcen zur Verfügung.
We have only limited resources available.
Negative meaning
When 'begrenzt' (limited) describes a person or their way of thinking, it is meant negatively and disparagingly. It then means 'simple-minded' or 'not very intelligent' and should be used with caution.
EXAMPLE
Manchmal wirkt er in seinen Ansichten etwas begrenzt.
Sometimes he seems a bit narrow-minded in his views.
Compare with
begrenzt vs endlich
finally / finite
'endlich' and 'begrenzt' can both express that something is not without end. 'endlich' is often used more generally or philosophically when something has an end, for example time or life. 'begrenzt' sounds more concrete and fits well with quantities, space, duration, or possibilities that have a clear limit. The words can be confused because both can express the opposite of 'unbegrenzt' (unlimited) or 'unendlich' (infinite). This does not refer to 'endlich' in the sense of 'finally' or 'after a long wait'. Also, 'begrenzt' can sound negative when used about people, if it means mentally limited or narrow-minded.
begrenzt
Für den Workshop ist die Zahl der Plätze begrenzt.
The number of spots for the workshop is limited.
endlich
Jana schreibt in ihrer Nachricht, dass jede Reise endlich ist.
Jana writes in her message that every journey is finite.
In real life
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