set limits — define boundaries
collocationB1IELTS 5+neutralcommon
to decide and make clear what is allowed or acceptable, especially to control behavior or use of something
Say it like a native
Textbook It is necessary to establish clearly defined parameters of acceptable behaviour.
Native You've got to set limits.
Natural; 'establish clearly defined parameters' is policy language.
Pattern: set limits (on/to something)
In use
- Parents need to set limits on how much time their children spend online.family
- In my opinion, it is important for schools to set limits on the use of mobile phones during class to help students concentrate.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ Parents should put limits to screen time.
✓ Parents should set limits on screen time.
You SET limits ON something, not 'put limits to'.
Common collocations
set limits on— on, clear, set boundaries, strict
Don't confuse it
Not the same as 'break limits', which means to go beyond what is allowed.