What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inhibit
Example
The fear of failure can inhibit a person's ability to take risks. [inhibit: verb]
Example
The presence of too many rules can inhibit creativity. [inhibit: verb]
constrain
Example
The budget constraints prevented us from hiring more staff. [constrain: verb]
Example
The tight deadline constrained our ability to be creative. [constrained: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Constrain is more commonly used in everyday language than inhibit. Inhibit is more commonly used in academic or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between inhibit and constrain?
Inhibit is generally considered more formal than constrain, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
