有限

yǒuxiàn

limited

HSK 5

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The adjective "有限" (yǒuxiàn) means "limited" or "having limits." It is commonly used to describe things that have boundaries, restrictions, or are not infinite, such as time, resources, knowledge, or capabilities.

Common Contexts

"有限" often appears in contexts discussing constraints or insufficiencies, for example, limited time (时间有限), limited resources (资源有限), or limited knowledge (知识有限). It usually carries a neutral or slightly negative nuance, implying that something is not enough or has a boundary.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 时间有限: limited time, emphasizing urgency or the need to prioritize.
  • 功能有限: limited functions, often used in product descriptions.
  • 知识有限: limited knowledge, indicating a need for learning or improvement.

Usage Notes

"有限" is an adjective and typically precedes the noun it modifies. It contrasts with "无限" (unlimited). When using "有限," speakers often imply a need to manage or work within these limits. Avoid confusing it with verbs like "有限," which means "to have restrictions."

Example Sentences

我们的时间是有限的,所以要高效利用。

Wǒmen de shíjiān shì yǒuxiàn de, suǒyǐ yào gāoxiào lìyòng.

Our time is limited, so we need to use it efficiently.

这个产品的功能是有限的,不能满足所有需求。

Zhège chǎnpǐn de gōngnéng shì yǒuxiàn de, bùnéng mǎnzú suǒyǒu xūqiú.

The functions of this product are limited and cannot meet all needs.

他的知识有限,还需要多学习。

Tā de zhīshì yǒuxiàn, hái xūyào duō xuéxí.

His knowledge is limited; he still needs to study more.