ultimate limit

[/ˈʌltɪmət ˈlɪmɪt/]
nounpl: ultimate limits
limite último
1. The maximum point or boundary beyond which something cannot go or exceed; the furthest extent of capability or tolerance
The ultimate limit of the bridge's weight capacity is 50 tons.
O limite último da capacidade de carga da ponte é de 50 toneladas.
2. In engineering and structural analysis, the maximum load or stress that a material or structure can withstand before failure
Engineers must calculate the ultimate limit state to ensure building safety.
Os engenheiros devem calcular o estado limite último para garantir a segurança do edifício.
3. The point at which no further progress, improvement, or extension is possible
We have reached the ultimate limit of what can be achieved with current technology.
Atingimos o limite último do que pode ser alcançado com a tecnologia atual.
This term is widely used in technical and engineering contexts in both Brazil and the United States. In Brazilian Portuguese, 'estado limite último' (ultimate limit state) is a standard term in NBR (Normas Brasileiras) building codes. In American English, it's commonly used in structural engineering, materials science, and general descriptions of maximum capacity. The phrase emphasizes absolute boundaries and non-negotiable thresholds.
NYC Slang
the max, the breaking point, the absolute ceiling
Synonyms / Sinônimos
maximum limitupper boundbreaking pointthresholdceilingextreme limit
Antonyms / Antônimos
minimum limitlower boundstarting point

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
limite último
standard technical and general usage
Brazil - Engineering
estado limite último
specific technical term used in engineering and construction standards
Portugal
limite último
same usage as Brazilian Portuguese in technical contexts
Portugal - Engineering
estado limite último
identical to Brazilian technical terminology

Related Words

limit stateload capacitystructural failuretolerancethresholdcapacity

Related Idioms & Phrases

reach the ultimate limit
push to the ultimate limit
test the ultimate limits
beyond the ultimate limit
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