Constriction: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used to describe the act or state of making something narrower, often in a physical context or dealing with body functions.

• The snake's constriction of its prey was deadly.
• She felt a constriction in her throat when she started to cry.

Typically used to describe the process of becoming narrower or the act of making something less broad. It's often used in discussions about physical spaces or in a metaphorical sense.

• The river's narrowing made it difficult for the boats to pass.
• There has been a narrowing of career choices in the current job market.

Often used to describe the act of making something tighter or more secure, both in physical and metaphorical senses.

• The tightening of the lid kept the jar contents fresh.
• The government is tightening its policies on tax evasion.

Used to describe an official rule or law that limits what people can do or limits freedom. It is often negative and imposed by an authority.

• The new restriction on travel has upset many tourists.
• Dietary restrictions must be followed for health reasons.

Commonly used to refer to a restriction or bound on abilities, opportunities, or capacities. It has a more general meaning than the other words.

• The limitations of the current technology are causing delays.
• Every person has their own limitations, but it's important to focus on strengths.

When describing something being squeezed or tightened, often referring to muscles or pathways in the body, like blood vessels or airways.

• He felt a constriction in his chest, making it hard to breathe

Describes something becoming thinner or more restricted in width; can be used for physical spaces or abstract ideas like options.

• The narrowing of the road made it difficult for two cars to pass

Refers to making something tighter, either physically like tightening a screw, or in a more abstract way like tightening security.

• She felt a tightening sensation in her neck muscles

Used to talk about the reduction in volume or size due to pressure, often in mechanical or physical contexts.

• The compression of the spring caused it to store energy