Restrictive: meaning, definitions and examples

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restrictive

[rɪˈstrɪktɪv ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in legal context

Imposing restrictions or limitations on something or someone, especially in a legal or official way.

Synonyms

constraining, limiting, regulating.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
restrictive	Use this word when describing rules or conditions that severely limit what can be done. The new law is quite restrictive and limits our ability to expand the business. She finds the school's dress code too restrictive.
limiting	This word is typically used when talking about restrictions that reduce possibilities or options. The limiting factors in the project were time and budget. Her lack of experience was limiting her job prospects.
constraining	This word is suitable when discussing factors that physically or metaphorically bind or restrict freedom of action or movement. His tight schedule was constraining his ability to relax. The constraining budget left little room for innovation.
regulating	This word is best used when describing rules, laws, or mechanisms that control or manage processes or behaviors. The government is regulating emissions to reduce pollution. The company has strict policies regulating employee conduct.

Examples of usage

The new law introduced more restrictive measures to control pollution levels.
The contract included several restrictive clauses that limited the company's ability to expand.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

in social context

Tending to limit or control someone's freedom or actions.

Synonyms

confining, oppressive, restraining.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
restrictive	Used when referring to laws, rules, or conditions that limit what someone can do. The new visa regulations are very restrictive
confining	Typically used to describe physical spaces or situations that feel cramped or limiting. Living in such a small apartment feels very confining
restraining	Often used in contexts where physical or metaphorical control is exerted to prevent freedom of movement or behavior. The guards put restraining orders on the prisoners
oppressive	Used to describe harsh and authoritarian treatment, or situations that heavily burden someone emotionally or physically. It often carries a negative connotation. The oppressive heat made it hard to concentrate

Examples of usage

Her parents had very restrictive rules about curfew and going out with friends.
The school had a restrictive dress code that prohibited students from wearing certain clothes.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originates from the Latin 'restrictus', meaning 'to draw tight' or 'to hold back'.
It made its way into Middle English in the late 14th century, evolving in meaning to denote limitations.

Psychology

Restrictive environments can lead to anxiety, as individuals feel they lack control over their choices.
Studies have shown that too many restrictions can hinder creativity and problem-solving abilities.

Legislation

Many laws are designed to be restrictive in an effort to manage social behavior, such as zoning laws that limit land use.
In public policy, 'restrictive measures' can refer to laws aimed at reducing harmful practices, like smoking in public places.

Literature

Restrictive themes are common in literature, often highlighting the struggles of characters against societal norms.
Classic novels frequently explore the tension between individual freedom and external constraints, such as in 'The Handmaid's Tale'.

Education

Restrictive policies in schools can affect student performance, as too many rules might impede learning environments.
Some educators advocate for less restrictive classrooms, believing this encourages student engagement and autonomy.

Translations

Translations of the word "restrictive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 restritivo

🇮🇳 प्रतिबंधात्मक

🇩🇪 restriktiv

🇮🇩 restriktif

🇺🇦 обмежувальний

🇵🇱 ograniczający

🇯🇵 制限的な

🇫🇷 restrictif

🇪🇸 restrictivo

🇹🇷 kısıtlayıcı

🇰🇷 제한적인

🇸🇦 مقيد

🇨🇿 omezující

🇸🇰 obmedzujúci

🇨🇳 限制性的

🇸🇮 omejujoč

🇮🇸 takmarkandi

🇰🇿 шектеулі

🇬🇪 შეზღუდული

🇦🇿 məhdudlaşdırıcı

🇲🇽 restrictivo

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,902 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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6899 catalyst
6900 install
6901 scared
6902 restrictive
6903 empowered
6904 dim
6905 dreadful
...