constrain
/kən'strein/
Definition
- Verb:
- To compel or force someone to follow a particular course of action: To impose a limitation or restriction on someone's behavior or choices.
- To restrict or limit the scope, extent, or activity of something: To keep something within certain bounds or limits.
- To hold back or inhibit: To prevent something from developing or expressing itself freely.
Usage Examples
- Verb:
- Financial difficulties constrain our ability to travel this year.
- The treaty constrains both nations from developing nuclear weapons.
- She felt constrained by the strict social rules of her community.
- The tight deadline constrained the team's creativity.
Advanced Usage
- "to be constrained to do something": To be forced or feel compelled to do something, often against one's will or preference.
- He was constrained to admit his mistake after seeing the evidence.
- "to constrain oneself": To hold back one's own actions, words, or feelings.
- She constrained herself from responding to the unfair criticism.
Variants and Related Words
- Constraint (n): A limitation or restriction.
- Time was the main constraint on the project.
- Constrained (adj): Appearing forced or unnatural; restricted.
- His smile seemed constrained and insincere.
- Unconstrained (adj): Not restricted or limited; free.
- The children played with unconstrained joy.
Synonyms
- Restrict: To put a limit on.
- Limit: To set a point beyond which something does not or may not extend.
- Compel: To force or oblige someone to do something.
- Curb: To restrain or keep in check.
Related Phrases
- To act under constraint: To act while feeling forced or limited.
- The agreement was signed under constraint, not out of genuine willingness.
Verb
- restrict
- Tighten the rules
- stiffen the regulations
- hold back
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