限り（は）As long as; unless
限り（は） makes a continuing state the condition for the main result: the result remains true as long as that state continues. After a negative verb, it commonly translates as “unless.”
How the condition works
Think of the first clause as drawing a boundary around the main result. While the condition stays true, the result stays in force; if the condition ends, the sentence no longer guarantees that result. This is why the construction naturally fits ongoing states, roles, relationships, and repeated circumstances.
Continuing conditions
The condition can support a personal commitment, a rule, or a prediction.
健康である限り、働き続けたい。
I want to keep working as long as I remain healthy.
AnalyzeThe wish continues for the entire period in which the speaker remains healthy.
この会員証が有効である限り、施設を利用できます。
You may use the facilities as long as this membership card remains valid.
AnalyzeThe card’s continuing validity is the condition for permission.
雨が降っている限り、試合は再開できない。
The match cannot resume as long as it is raining.
Analyze事情が変わらない限り、この方針を維持します。
Unless circumstances change, we will maintain this policy.
AnalyzeLiterally: As long as the circumstances do not change, we will maintain this policy.
Not the information-basis use
The pattern on this page states a condition that continues over time or circumstances. By contrast, 限りでは can mean “as far as the available information shows,” limiting the basis for a conclusion rather than setting a continuing condition.
私が確認した限りでは、数字に誤りはありません。
As far as I have checked, there are no errors in the figures.
AnalyzeThis sentence limits the claim to what the speaker has checked; it does not mean that the absence of errors lasts while the checking continues.
More examples
この町に住む限り、車は必要だ。
As long as I live in this town, I will need a car.
Analyze信頼関係が続いている限り、協力は可能です。
Cooperation is possible as long as the relationship of trust continues.
Analyze価格が高い限り、若い世代には広まりにくいだろう。
As long as the price remains high, it will probably have difficulty catching on among younger people.
Analyze本人が同意しない限り、写真を公開してはいけない。
The photograph must not be made public unless the person concerned agrees.
Analyze私がこのチームの一員である限り、最後まで支えます。
As long as I am a member of this team, I will support it to the end.
Analyze症状が改善しない限り、激しい運動は避けてください。
Please avoid strenuous exercise unless your symptoms improve.
Analyze