The phrase "within narrow bounds" functions as a prepositional phrase in English.
/wɪˈðɪn ˈnɛroʊ baʊndz/
"Within narrow bounds" generally refers to being restricted to a small or limited range of possibilities, options, or areas. It implies that whatever is being discussed is constrained and does not allow for much variation or deviation. This phrase is used in both written and oral contexts, but it may appear more frequently in written texts, such as academic articles, reports, or formal discussions.
The project's goals were kept within narrow bounds to ensure feasibility.
(Los objetivos del proyecto se mantuvieron dentro de límites estrechos para asegurar la viabilidad.)
Her research operates within narrow bounds, focusing only on the effects of climate change in urban areas.
(Su investigación opera dentro de límites estrechos, centrándose solo en los efectos del cambio climático en áreas urbanas.)
The committee made decisions within narrow bounds, considering only the most immediate issues.
(El comité tomó decisiones dentro de límites estrechos, considerando solo los problemas más inmediatos.)
While the exact phrase "within narrow bounds" is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions, the idea of being "narrow" or "bound" is prevalent in various idioms in English. Here are a few idiomatic expressions that incorporate these concepts:
Stay within the lines.
(Mantente dentro de las líneas.)
This expression means to follow rules or not to stray from the expected behavior.
Cut corners.
(Tomar atajos.)
This means to do something in the easiest or quickest way, often sacrificing quality or standards, which can metaphorically imply operating within narrow bounds.
Play it safe.
(Ser cauteloso.)
This idiom refers to taking minimal risks, thus staying within the confines of a safe or limited approach.
Toe the line.
(Respetar las reglas.)
This means to conform to a set of rules or standards, thus operating within narrow bounds of acceptance.
Keep a tight rein.
(Mantener un control estricto.)
This means to maintain strict control over something, thereby restricting its operations within limited limits.
To succeed in this profession, you must stay within the lines or risk getting in trouble.
(Para tener éxito en esta profesión, debes mantenerte dentro de las líneas o arriesgarte a meterte en problemas.)
It's tempting to cut corners, but you'll regret it in the end if quality suffers.
(Es tentador tomar atajos, pero lo lamentarás al final si la calidad sufre.)
In times of uncertainty, many prefer to play it safe rather than take bold risks.
(En tiempos de incertidumbre, muchos prefieren ser cautelosos en lugar de tomar riesgos audaces.)
If you want to maintain discipline, you need to toe the line with your team.
(Si quieres mantener la disciplina, debes respetar las reglas con tu equipo.)
She keeps a tight rein on her budget to avoid overspending on unnecessary items.
(Ella mantiene un control estricto sobre su presupuesto para evitar gastar de más en artículos innecesarios.)
The phrase "within narrow bounds" derives from the Old English word "nǣre," meaning "narrow," which indicates a limited space or extent. The term "bounds" comes from the Old French "bond," meaning "limit" or "boundary." Consequently, the phrase evokes the image of being encased within limited confines.