Restrict: meaning, definitions and examples

Mentioned twice in error. Already covered above.

General term for setting boundaries or reducing the extent or quantity of something.

• They plan to limit the number of participants in the event.
• He decided to limit his daily intake of sugar.

Used when something is forcing or compelling a person or object to remain within certain bounds; often conveys a sense of limitation by external forces.

• Economic factors constrain their ability to invest in new projects.
• She felt constrained by her tight schedule.

Usually implies holding back from action or keeping someone or something under control, often through physical means; can carry a negative connotation of suppression.

• The police had to restrain the aggressive protester.
• She tried to restrain her emotions during the meeting.

Used when controlling or maintaining the rate or speed of a process so that it operates properly, often through rules and regulations.

• The government will regulate the use of drones in urban areas.
• It's important to regulate your sleep patterns.

Utilized when talking about limiting someone's ability or amount of something.

• The government decided to restrict travel to certain countries
• She tried to restrict her spending to save money

Applied when referring to inherent restrictions or deficiencies in a situation, object, or person.

• There are limitations to what this software can achieve
• Despite his limitations, he managed to complete the task

Used when emphasizing limitations that are necessarily imposed, often due to external factors.

• The project faced financial constraints
• They had to work within the constraints of a tight deadline

Refers to official rules or directives made by authorities to manage behavior or situations.

• New environmental regulations were introduced last year
• The company must comply with health and safety regulations

Employed when referring to specific terms or stipulations under which something is done or happens.

• You can borrow my car under the condition that you return it by tomorrow
• His parole comes with several conditions