Definition

Noun: 1. The ability to regulate one's emotions, thoughts, and behavior in the face of temptations and impulses. It is the trait of exercising restraint over one's own actions, feelings, or desires. 2. The act of self-denial or self-restraint. It involves conscious effort to control impulses and delay gratification.

Usage and Examples

• It takes considerable self-control to stick to a diet during the holidays.
• She maintained her self-control despite the intense provocation.
• Children learn self-control through practice and guidance.
• Losing his self-control, he shouted in frustration.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• "To exercise self-control": To actively use one's restraint.
  • You must exercise self-control when managing your budget.
• "A display of self-control": An instance showing restraint.
  • His calm response was a remarkable display of self-control.
• "A lapse in self-control": A temporary failure to maintain restraint.
  • Eating the whole cake was a lapse in self-control.

Variants and Related Words

• Self-discipline (n): Training and control of oneself and one's conduct, usually for personal improvement. (Often implies a structured, habitual practice, whereas can be a single instance of restraint).
• Self-restraint (n): The act of holding oneself back; similar to , often used interchangeably.
• Self-command (n): A dated or formal synonym for self-control.
• Self-possessed (adj): Having or showing control of one's feelings or behavior; composed.

Synonyms

• Restraint
• Willpower
• Discipline
• Composure
• Temperance

Antonyms

• Impulsiveness
• Self-indulgence
• Rashness

Idioms and Phrases

• "Keep one's cool": To maintain one's composure and self-control.
  • Even during the argument, she managed to keep her cool.
• "Bite one's tongue": To stop oneself from saying something.
  • I had to bite my tongue to avoid an angry outburst.
• "Hold/keep oneself in check": To control one's emotions or actions.
  • He was furious but held himself in check.

Noun

1. the trait of resolutely controlling your own behavior
2. the act of denying yourself; controlling your impulses