“Including but not Limited To” Meaning
This phrase is used to describe parts of a group, not the whole thing. "Including but not limited to" pertains to a set of examples on a subject that does not represent every single possible item on the list. Integrating the phrase, “including but not limited to,” in a formal or legal setting is a way of letting someone know that the list you’ve mentioned is not finite, and that there may be other examples not explicitly stated. The expression is only detailing a part of the group, not the whole. Another acceptable version of the idiom shortens the first word to, “includes but is not limited to.” Here are some general examples: When applying for a job, the position details might read: “Responsibilities include but are not limited overseeing large scale projects, doing payroll for employees, and cold-calling potential customers.” When submitting a college paper, your professor’s rubric might read: “An ‘A’ paper includes but is not limited to thoughtful commentary, concrete examples from the text, and flawless grammar.” When signing up for home insurance, the fine print might read: “Coverage includes but is not limited to property damage, pet damage, and legal fees.”
“Including but not Limited To” Origins
Although its origins are uncertain, we know it first appeared in legal papers. It was initially used to describe who would be covered under certain legal situations. For example, if someone bought property from the owner, then they would become “included” in its ownership. The idiom has evolved and changed with modern usage, applicable in formal and informal situations alike. The phrase has countless applications across fields, including law, academia, and the workplace. “Including but not limited to” can be used in social situations to provide a list examples that don’t define the entire list.
How to Use It
The expression can be used formally or informally in conversation. It’s a great way to describe guidelines and parameters in a business setting, along with an eloquent touch to spice up conversation. Here are a few examples of how you can integrate this idiom into your daily life. “My favorite cookies include but are not limited to chocolate chip, strawberry crinkle, and oatmeal.” “The differences between Canada and the U.S. include but are not limited to weather, population, and affinity for maple syrup.” “The criteria that needs to be met for this assignment includes but is not limited to a 1000 word count minimum, six sources, and author interviews.” “My Christmas wishlist includes but is not limited to workout clothes, perfume, and makeup.” “Being a good Christian includes but is not limited to being kind to others, going to church, and accepting Jesus Christ as your savior.”
Similar Phrases
Here are a few alternatives to “including but not limited to." If you’re all burnt out on this idiom, these other expressions can be used in written documents or in conversation. All of them offer examples that represent part of the group, but not the whole group. “Except as noted.” This common phrase can be used to describe a caveat or loophole in a contract. It can similarly be used in conversation. Prefacing a list of pre-determined items, “except as noted” lets the reader know that the rules stand… with a few exceptions. Examples: “Except as noted in the paragraph below, no pets will be allowed.” “Except as noted in Section 5, all other holidays will be unpaid.” “Except as noted on the playbill, all songs will be original.” “Unless otherwise stated.” This expression seeks to clearly point out that unless a term is explicitly stated, the good old rules still apply. You can modify this in conversation by saying, “Unless otherwise said.” Moreover, you could also say, “Unless stated otherwise.” Examples: “All the amenities in the common room are available to everyone, unless otherwise stated.” “Everyone here is invited to my birthday party… unless otherwise stated.” “Unless stated otherwise, there will not be time for questions afterwards.” “E.g.” From the Latin “exempli gratia”, e.g. means “for example.” Usually, e.g. is followed by one or two examples and is not meant to detail a long list. You can use it in writing or in conversation after making a statement that you want to provide examples for. Examples: “I love card games, e.g. poker and crazy eights.” “He needs to take it to the next level, e.g. ask you to be exclusive!” “We have tons of seasonal flavors, e.g. peppermint and snickerdoodle.”
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