Skip to main content
◈ GLOSSARY · TRADING & MARKETS

Limit Order.

A definition, in plain English — with the books that teach it.

ClearValue Books · reviewed against sources ·
◈ DEFINITION

What it means

Definition

An instruction to buy at no more than a set price, or sell at no less than a set price. You trade certainty of fill for control of price — the order only executes if the market reaches your number. It's the default tool for anyone who doesn't want to get steamrolled on wide spreads or fast moves.

◈ IN PRACTICE

Example

Stock is trading at $50.05. You place a limit buy at $50.00. If the ask drops to $50.00 or below, you fill there. If the stock runs to $52 instead, your order sits unfilled — which is the tradeoff.

◈ RECOMMENDED READING

Books that explain this

Day Trade Online
Christopher A Farrell
Compleat Day Trader
Jake Bernstein
◈ KEEP READING
Glossary
All defined terms →
Category
Trading & Markets books →
Library
Browse all books →