What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
restrain
Example
The police officer had to restrain the suspect from running away. [restrain: verb]
Example
She tried to restrain her anger and remain calm. [restrain: verb]
Example
The company had to restrain its expenses due to financial difficulties. [restrain: verb]
curb
Example
The government is trying to curb the spread of the virus by implementing strict measures. [curb: verb]
Example
The curb prevented the car from rolling down the hill. [curb: noun]
Example
The sidewalk was lined with curbs to prevent pedestrians from walking onto the street. [curbs: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Curb is more commonly used than restrain in everyday language, especially in the context of controlling negative behavior. Restrain is less common but can be used in a variety of contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between restrain and curb?
Both restrain and curb can be used in formal and informal contexts, but restrain may be perceived as more formal due to its wider range of usage and more intense connotation.
