The phrase "kept within limits" is pronounced as /kɛpt wɪðɪn ˈlɪmɪts/ in IPA transcription. The word "kept" has a short e sound followed by a voiceless stop /p/. The word "within" has a long i sound followed by a voiceless fricative /θ/. Lastly, the word "limits" has a short i sound followed by a voiceless stop /t/. Together, these three words form a phrase that means something is being restrained and not allowed to exceed a certain boundary or threshold.
The phrase "kept within limits" refers to the act or state of maintaining or controlling something within a prescribed range, extent, or boundaries. When something is kept within limits, it implies that it is being managed, watched, or regulated to prevent excess, deviation, or excesses. This concept can be applied to various aspects of life, such as behavior, actions, resources, or regulations.
Keeping within limits typically involves adhering to certain guidelines, rules, or restrictions set in order to avoid reaching a point of exaggeration, extreme, or overflow. This practice can be seen in many areas, including personal conduct, where individuals strive to demonstrate self-discipline or exercise self-control to prevent straying beyond acceptable or appropriate behavior.
In governance or administration, keeping within limits refers to the responsible management of resources, finances, or powers to prevent abuses, misappropriation, or immoderate use. This concept also applies to environmental stewardship, where limiting pollution, deforestation, or waste is essential for sustainability and the safeguarding of ecosystems.
The phrase can also be applied to emotional, physical, or mental well-being, stressing the importance of maintaining a balanced state in order to avoid harmful outcomes or negative consequences. It implies the need to set boundaries, practice moderation, or adhere to certain guidelines to prevent oneself from going beyond a manageable point in these areas.
Overall, "kept within limits" indicates the act of consciously monitoring and restraining something to ensure it remains within acceptable boundaries, constraints, or regulations.