phrase (discourse marker) · academic
A key limitation is + Noun/that-clause
Used to introduce an important weakness or shortcoming in an argument, study, or policy.
Examples
“A key limitation is the small sample size of the study.”
“A key limitation is that the data are self‑reported.”
“A key limitation is the lack of long-term follow-up.”
Band 8 sentence
“A key limitation is that the longitudinal data do not extend beyond five years, which restricts our ability to infer long‑term effects.”
Collocations
- A key limitation is the small sample size
- A major limitation is that + clause
Word family
Common mistakes
The key limitation is ... (missing article)→A key limitation is ...
A key limitation are + Noun→A key limitation is + Noun
Say it for a higher band
5There is a problem with + Noun→6One limitation is + Noun/that-clause→7+A key limitation is + Noun/that-clause
Synonyms
A major drawback is
One significant limitation is
Easily confused
A major drawback is + Noun/that-clause
“A major drawback is the high cost of the programme.”
One limitation is + Noun/that-clause
“One limitation is the short duration of the study.”
Related words
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In Opening & closing ideas
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