constrain

[kənˈstreɪn]

constrain Definition

• 1. to limit or restrict someone or something
• 2. to force someone to do something they do not want to do

Using constrain: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "constrain" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The company was constrained by a lack of resources.

• Example

  The new regulations will constrain the industry's growth.

• Example

  I am constrained to inform you that your application has been rejected.

• Example

  The hostages were constrained to cooperate with their captors.

constrain Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for constrain

• restrict
• limit
• curb
• restrain
• constrict

Antonyms for constrain

• allow
• encourage
• liberate

Idioms Using constrain

• constrained circumstances

  a situation where one is limited by financial or other resources

  Example

  Growing up in constrained circumstances, she learned to be resourceful and creative.

• constrained by convention

  limited by traditional or societal norms or expectations

  Example

  She felt constrained by convention and longed to break free from the expectations placed on her.

• constrained writing

  writing that follows strict rules or limitations, often for artistic effect

  Example

  His poetry was known for its constrained writing style, using only a limited set of words and structures.

Phrases with constrain

• feel constrained

  to feel limited or restricted in one's actions or choices

  Example

  I feel constrained by the rules of this organization.

• constrained smile

  a smile that is forced or insincere, often due to discomfort or awkwardness

  Example

  She gave him a constrained smile, not sure how to respond to his comment.

• self-constrained

  to voluntarily limit or restrict oneself in some way

  Example

  He was self-constrained in his spending habits, always saving for a rainy day.

Origins of constrain

from Old French 'constra(i)ndre', from Latin 'constringere', meaning 'to bind together'

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Summary: constrain in Brief

The verb 'constrain' [kənˈstreɪn] means to limit or restrict someone or something, or to force someone to do something they do not want to do. It can be used in contexts such as business, law, and personal relationships. Examples include 'The new regulations will constrain the industry's growth.' and 'The hostages were constrained to cooperate with their captors.' 'Constrain' also appears in phrases like 'feel constrained,' and idioms like 'constrained circumstances,' referring to limited resources.