Definition

1. Verb:
   • To draw a line around something; to encircle: In geometry, to draw one geometric figure around another so that they touch at as many points as possible without intersecting.
   • To restrict or limit something; to confine within bounds: To set limits on the scope, power, or activity of something.

Usage Examples

• Verb (Geometric):

  • The students were asked to circumscribe a circle around the triangle. (The geometric figure was drawn around another.)
  • Ancient astronomers tried to circumscribe the paths of the planets. (They attempted to define or draw boundaries around the orbits.)

• Verb (To Restrict):

  • The new laws circumscribe the authority of the president. (They limit or restrict the president's power.)
  • His illness circumscribed his social life. (The illness placed limits on his activities.)

Advanced Usage

• "to circumscribe a problem": to define the boundaries or limits of a problem.
  • The first step is to circumscribe the problem before seeking solutions.
• "to be circumscribed by": to be limited or defined by certain factors.
  • Her options were severely circumscribed by a lack of funds.

Variants and Related Words

• Circumscription (n): The action of limiting something; a restriction or boundary.
  • The circumscription of their powers was clearly stated in the treaty.
• Circumscribed (adj): Limited, restricted, or defined.
  • He lived a circumscribed life in the small village.

Synonyms

• Encircle: To form a circle around.
• Limit: To set a point or level beyond which something does not or may not extend.
• Restrict: To put a limit on; to keep under control.
• Confine: To keep or restrict someone or something within certain limits.

Antonyms

• Expand: To become or make larger or more extensive.
• Extend: To cause to cover a larger area; to enlarge.
• Broaden: To become wider or more comprehensive.

Related Phrases

• "Circumscribe the terms of a debate": To define and limit the topics that can be discussed.
  • The moderator's job was to circumscribe the terms of the debate to keep it focused.
• "A circumscribed area": A clearly defined and limited area.
  • The protest was confined to a circumscribed area of the park.

Verb

1. to draw a geometric figure around another figure so that the two are in contact but do not intersect
2. restrict or confine, "I limit you to two visits to the pub a day"
3. draw a line around
   • He drew a circle around the points