Pronunciation: [sˈɪti lˈɪmɪt] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of "city limit" is /ˈsɪti ˈlɪmɪt/. The first word, "city," is pronounced with an /s/ sound, followed by the short "i" sound (/ɪ/) and a stressed /ti/ syllable. The second word, "limit," starts with a /l/ sound followed by a short "i" sound (/ɪ/) and a stressed /mɪt/ syllable. This term refers to the boundary or edge of a city or town, and it is important to spell it correctly in official documents or signage.
City limit refers to the designated boundary that delineates the geographical extent and jurisdictional authority of a city or municipality. It denotes the outermost point or line that separates the urban area of the city from the surrounding rural or suburban regions.
The city limit is typically demarcated by physical markers, such as signs or posts, placed along major roads or highways at strategic points. This boundary is legally recognized and determines the scope of municipal governance and services. Within the city limit, local government entities have jurisdiction over matters such as zoning regulations, public safety, road maintenance, and public services like water and waste management.
The purpose of establishing city limits is to establish a clear distinction between urban and non-urban areas and to provide a framework for the organization and administration of municipal affairs. Beyond the city limit, governance may be under different jurisdictions, such as county or state authorities. The city limit also serves as a basis for taxation and the allocation of resources, as municipalities typically generate revenue from property taxes within their borders.
In addition to its administrative and legal aspects, the concept of city limit may have symbolic and cultural significance. The boundary often represents a transition from rural to urban areas and may be associated with a specific identity or character attributed to the city.
The term "city limit" originates from Middle English, derived from the Old French word "cite" (meaning a city) and the Latin word "limitis" (meaning boundary). The word "cite" further comes from the Latin word "civitas", also meaning a city.
