Constricting: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when talking about something that makes you feel tight or uncomfortable, often physically.

• The tight shoes were constricting my feet
• The snake's coils were constricting around its prey

Use this word when discussing rules, laws, or policies that create limits on what people can do.

• The new law is very restrictive for small businesses
• These regulations are too restrictive for creative projects

Use this word when talking about something that reduces the potential or freedom of action, often mentally or professionally.

• A lack of education can be very limiting for job opportunities
• Her fear of flying was limiting her travel plans

Use this word when talking about decreasing a range or scope, can be physical or abstract.

• The narrowing path made it difficult to walk side by side
• The debate is narrowing the choices we have

This word suggests a reduction in size or volume by something wrapping around tightly. Often used in medical or biological contexts.

• The snake's constricting grip around its prey was deadly.
• The constricting feeling in her chest made it hard to breathe.

This word implies applying pressure from different sides to extract something or fit into a small space, usually in everyday or casual situations.

• She squeezed the toothpaste out of the tube.
• He managed to squeeze into the tight parking spot.

This word is used when talking about applying pressure to reduce volume or space, often in a mechanical or technical context.

• You need to compress the files before sending them via email.
• The trash was compressed to save space.

This word means making something more secure or firm, commonly used with bolts, screws, and rules.

• You need to tighten the screws on the chair.
• The government decided to tighten the regulations.