限界

• Reading: げんかい
• Romaji: genkai
• Kanji breakdown: 限 (gen/kagi) — limit, boundary; 界 (kai) — world, boundary, realm
• Pronunciation: /ɡeŋkai/

Meaning

Limit; boundary; threshold. The point beyond which something cannot continue or function.

A widely used noun for physical, mental, institutional, or conceptual limits. 限界に達する (to reach the limit) and 限界を超える (to exceed the limit) are common patterns. Also used in scientific and mathematical contexts for thresholds. In everyday speech, 限界だ conveys that one is at breaking point.

Examples

1. 連日の残業で、体力的に限界を感じていた。 After days of overtime, he was feeling physically at his limit.
2. 現行制度の限界を認め、抜本的な改革が求められている。 Recognizing the limits of the current system, fundamental reform is being called for.
3. 彼女はどんな状況でも限界まで諦めなかった。 No matter the situation, she never gave up until she reached her absolute limit.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, work, science, sports, policy

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 限 (gen, limit/boundary) and 界 (kai, world/boundary/realm). Together they define the boundary of a domain or capacity.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal