How to Say "restriction" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “restriction” is “limitación” — use 'limitación' when referring to a maximum permissible amount or a physical boundary, like speed or capacity..
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limitación
nounB1general
Use 'limitación' when referring to a maximum permissible amount or a physical boundary, like speed or capacity.
Examples
Hay una limitación de velocidad de 50 kilómetros por hora.
There is a speed limit of 50 kilometers per hour.
restricción
nounB1general
Choose 'restricción' for a general rule or measure imposed to control or limit something, often due to scarcity or a specific situation like a drought.
Examples
Hay una restricción de agua por la sequía.
There is a water restriction because of the drought.
prohibición
nounB1general
Use 'prohibición' when the restriction is a complete ban on a specific action or behavior.
Examples
Hay una prohibición de fumar en todo el edificio.
There is a ban on smoking in the entire building.
Limitación vs. Prohibición vs. Restricción
The most common confusion is between 'limitación' and 'restricción'. Remember that 'limitación' often refers to a numerical or physical boundary (like speed), while 'restricción' is a broader measure to control something, often due to external factors. 'Prohibición' is the strongest, meaning a complete ban.
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