01
beschränkt
limited
Limited or restricted in number, scope, space, or time.
example
Die Anzahl der Parkplätze ist stark beschränkt.
The number of parking spaces is very limited.
beschränkt
limited / narrow-minded
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
'Beschränkt' (limited/restricted) is the past participle of the verb 'beschränken' (to limit/restrict). The verb is derived from 'die Schranke' (the barrier). So to restrict something literally means to set a barrier or limit for it.
EXAMPLE
Der Zugang zum Archiv ist für die Öffentlichkeit beschränkt.
Access to the archive is limited for the public.
Use with 'auf'
To indicate the limit or boundary, 'beschränkt' (limited) is very often used with the preposition 'auf' and the accusative. This pattern is very typical.
EXAMPLE
Die Redezeit ist auf fünf Minuten pro Person beschränkt.
Speaking time is limited to five minutes per person.
Derogatory meaning
When 'beschränkt' (narrow-minded/stupid) describes a person, it is an insult and means 'dumm' (stupid) or 'engstirnig' (narrow-minded). You should use this word very carefully when referring to people, because it is strongly derogatory.
EXAMPLE
Seine Ansichten sind extrem beschränkt und intolerant.
His views are extremely narrow-minded and intolerant.
Fixed legal expression
In business and legal contexts, 'beschränkt' (limited) is part of the fixed term 'Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung' (limited liability company, GmbH). Here it refers to financial liability that is limited to the company's assets.
EXAMPLE
Viele kleine Unternehmen werden als Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung gegründet.
Many small businesses are founded as limited liability companies.
Compare with
beschränkt vs endlich
finally / finite
'endlich' and 'beschränkt' can both express that something has a limit. 'endlich' fits better in general statements about time, life, or things that are not infinite. 'beschränkt' is more concrete and often means that the number, space, scope, or duration is limited. In fixed or technical expressions, it can also refer to limited liability. Be careful: when used about people, 'beschränkt' can sound derogatory and mean 'stupid' or 'narrow-minded'. 'endlich' does not have this meaning. You should also not confuse this with 'endlich' in the sense of 'after a long wait'.
beschränkt
Die Teilnehmerzahl für den Kurs ist auf zwölf Personen beschränkt.
The number of participants for the course is limited to twelve people.
endlich
Im Unterricht sprechen wir darüber, dass das menschliche Leben endlich ist.
In class, we talk about the fact that human life is finite.
In real life
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