The phrase “including but not limited to” is often used to introduce a list of examples, implying that the items mentioned are just a few among many. While it’s a useful expression, overusing it can make writing feel repetitive and monotonous. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternative phrases that can serve the same purpose while keeping your language varied and engaging. “12 Other Ways to Say ‘Including But Not Limited To’ (With Examples)” explores these alternatives, offering both creative and professional options for writers looking to enrich their vocabulary.
Repetitive phrases can dull your writing, but discovering fresh ways to communicate the same ideas can revitalize your work. By using more varied expressions, you not only elevate your writing style but also ensure that your content remains interesting and engaging for your audience.
This guide provides a valuable collection of alternatives, from “such as” to “among others,” that can add precision, clarity, and flair to your writing. With examples for each phrase, you’ll be equipped to replace “including but not limited to” in a way that fits your tone and context, making your communication both effective and compelling.
1. Why Should You Replace “Including But Not Limited To”?
Overusing certain phrases, like “including but not limited to”, can come off as stiff or even pretentious. While it’s useful in legal, academic, and formal writing, you may want to avoid it in more casual or engaging content. Using different variations not only boosts the readability of your writing but also helps keep your audience interested.
Moreover, repeating a phrase too often can weaken your writing and reduce its impact. By diversifying your vocabulary, you’re making your work more dynamic, precise, and professional. Now, let’s dive into these alternatives!
2. A Non-Exhaustive List Includes

This is an excellent alternative that clearly indicates the list is incomplete. It implies that there are more items that could be added, but these are just a few examples.
Example:
- The proposal covers a non-exhaustive list of services, including consulting, training, and project management.
This phrase works well in formal contexts such as business reports or academic writing, where you want to show that your list is not all-encompassing. It’s often used when you want to avoid seeming like you’ve covered everything.
Usage Tips:
- This phrase is ideal for situations where you don’t want to specify everything, but you still need to offer enough information.
- Use it when emphasizing that your examples are just a selection of many possibilities.
3. Some Options Are
Sometimes, you want to suggest that there are many possibilities without implying that the options are all-inclusive. “Some options are” is a casual, yet effective way to introduce examples or selections.
Example:
- Some options are consulting, project management, and web development services.
This phrase gives your audience a sense of choice and flexibility while keeping things light and approachable. It’s great for more informal or conversational contexts.
Usage Tips:
- Use this in marketing materials, blog posts, or presentations where the tone is less formal.
- It works well when discussing choices, preferences, or suggestions.
4. Such As, But Not Limited To

This phrase is almost identical to “including but not limited to”, but it can sound a bit smoother in many contexts. It’s particularly useful when you want to provide a few examples without narrowing the scope too much.
Example:
- The conference will cover topics such as digital marketing, social media strategies, but not limited to content creation and SEO.
This variation is versatile and can be used in both professional and casual writing. It’s particularly effective when offering a glimpse into the broader content or topics at hand.
Usage Tips:
- This is a great alternative for formal documents, emails, and presentations.
- Ideal when you want to give a snapshot of what’s included without over-explaining.
5. Including, But Not Limited To
Although it’s a common phrase, “including, but not limited to” remains a tried-and-true choice, effectively conveying that the list presented is not exhaustive. It’s often the go-to phrase for professional and legal contexts.
Example:
- The event will feature artists including, but not limited to, painters, sculptors, and photographers.
This phrase is clear, formal, and widely recognized, making it suitable for official documents, emails, and contracts.
Usage Tips:
- Use this phrase when you want to keep things clear and formal.
- Ideal for legal documents, contracts, and professional communications.
6. Like, But Not Limited To
“Like, but not limited to” is a more conversational way to express that the list is incomplete. It’s best used when you want to be casual and approachable, but still need to signal that there are more options beyond those listed.
Example:
- The workshop covers topics like, but not limited to, customer service, marketing strategies, and branding.
This phrase makes your writing feel more natural and less rigid. It’s a great choice when speaking to a general audience in an informal or semi-formal setting.
Usage Tips:
- Use it in blog posts, newsletters, and other forms of casual writing where you want to connect with your reader.
- Works well when you don’t need to sound overly formal but still need to convey a point effectively.
7. Comprising, But Not Limited To

If you’re aiming for a slightly more formal tone, “comprising, but not limited to” is a solid choice. It’s a good fit for technical or academic writing where you need to present a range of components, but still want to leave the door open for more possibilities.
Example:
- The team is comprising, but not limited to, engineers, designers, and product managers.
This phrase conveys a sense of completeness without being restrictive. It’s perfect for outlining the components of a group, collection, or system.
Usage Tips:
- Great for formal writing, such as research papers, proposals, or professional reports.
- Works best when discussing parts of a whole, whether it’s a team, a project, or a plan.
8. Inclusive Of, But Not Limited To
Another formal variation is “inclusive of, but not limited to”. This is often used in legal or contractual language, as it conveys a sense of comprehensiveness without implying that the list is exhaustive.
Example:
- The agreement covers services inclusive of, but not limited to, software development, design work, and marketing strategy.
This phrase works well when you need to specify that your list is broad, yet you don’t want to rule out other potential items.
Usage Tips:
- Commonly used in legal documents, contracts, and formal business communication.
- Works well when you need to emphasize the breadth of a category or service offering.
9. With Examples Such As

This is a straightforward and clear alternative to “including but not limited to”. It emphasizes that the following items are examples, and there are more that could fit within the same category.
Example:
- The course covers topics with examples such as user experience design, interactive media, and app development.
This is a great way to introduce your examples without over-complicating things.
Usage Tips:
- Excellent for educational content, tutorials, or blog posts where you want to show a sample of your ideas.
- Use it in writing that requires clarity without sounding overly formal.
10. Comprised Of, But Not Limited To
This alternative works similarly to “comprising, but not limited to” but sounds a bit more natural in some contexts. “Comprised of, but not limited to” is often used when detailing the makeup of a group, team, or system.
Example:
- The committee is comprised of, but not limited to, senior managers, analysts, and department heads.
This phrasing adds a professional touch without sounding overly complex.
Usage Tips:
- Ideal for formal reports, organizational charts, and business communications.
- Use when discussing the structure of a team or the components of a system.
11. Containing, But Not Limited To

When you want to specify the parts of something without being restrictive, “containing, but not limited to” can work well. This phrase is useful when listing the elements of something while acknowledging that other components may exist.
Example:
- The software package contains, but is not limited to, project management tools, CRM integration, and analytics features.
This is a clear and concise alternative that doesn’t feel too heavy or formal.
Usage Tips:
- Best for describing the features of a product, tool, or service.
- Works well in technical or product descriptions.
12. Such As, But Not Limited To
Another variation that works similarly to “like, but not limited to” is “such as, but not limited to.” It’s simple and clear while maintaining the flexibility you need to avoid limiting your list.
Example:
- The restaurant offers dishes such as, but not limited to, pasta, pizza, and seafood.
This is an excellent alternative for offering a few examples in any context.
Usage Tips:
- Great for product descriptions, service lists, or casual blog posts.
- Use when you want to give examples but don’t want to be overly specific.
FAQs
1. What does “including but not limited to” mean?
It introduces examples without implying the list is complete.
2. Why should I use alternatives to “including but not limited to”?
Using alternatives can make your writing more varied and engaging.
3. Can I use these alternatives in formal writing?
Yes, many alternatives are suitable for formal contexts.
4. Are these alternatives commonly used?
Yes, expressions like “such as” and “for example” are widely used.
5. Where can I find more examples of these alternatives?
Resources like “12 Other Ways to Say ‘Including But Not Limited To’ (With Examples)” provide comprehensive lists. citeturn0search5
Conclusion
In conclusion, exploring the “12 Other Ways to Say ‘Including But Not Limited To’ (With Examples)” can greatly improve your writing. These alternatives allow you to avoid repetitive language and make your content more dynamic. Whether you’re writing a professional email or creative content, these phrases can help you express your ideas clearly and engagingly.
By using these alternatives, you’ll have a variety of options to choose from, making your writing sound more polished and precise. The “12 Other Ways to Say ‘Including But Not Limited To’ (With Examples)” guide equips you with the tools to communicate effectively and keep your audience interested. With these new expressions, your writing will always feel fresh and well-crafted.

Sophie Bell is a creative writer at Mystic Saviour, specializing in Word Mechanics, Name Narratives, and Linguistic Twists. She brings a passion for language and storytelling, helping readers explore unique and engaging ways to enhance their writing.