Words / B2

k-uh-n-STRAYN/kənˈstreɪn/

To constrain is to limit what someone can do, often by rules, money, or time — more formal than limit. You are constrained by a budget; time constrained the experiment. Restrict often names a rule someone imposes; constrain can feel like an external squeeze. Constraint is the common noun (under tight constraints). In speech, hold back or limit is plainer.

Meaning

To limit what someone can do.

Examples

• “Time constrained what we could finish.”
• “Costs constrained how far we could travel.”
• “She felt constrained by the official script.”

Good to know

constrained by + limit. Noun: constraint. Everyday: limit / hold back.

Near in meaning

limit

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