What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
constraint
Example
The project was completed under tight time constraints. [constraint: noun]
Example
The company operates under financial constraints that limit its ability to expand. [constraints: plural noun]
restraint
Example
He showed great restraint in not reacting to the insult. [restraint: noun]
Example
The police used restraints to subdue the suspect. [restraints: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Restraint is more commonly used than constraint in everyday language. Restraint is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while constraint is less common and often used in technical or specialized fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between constraint and restraint?
While constraint is typically associated with a formal or technical tone, restraint is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
