Stifling: meaning, definitions and examples

Best used when describing a situation where there is a lack of air or freedom, making it hard to breathe. It can be used both literally (heat or lack of ventilation) and metaphorically (restrictive environments).

• The room was so stifling that I could hardly breathe.
• Her controlling parents created a stifling atmosphere at home.

Used to describe conditions where it feels almost impossible to breathe, either because of lack of air or extreme pressure or constraint. This term frequently conveys a strong sense of discomfort or distress.

• The room was so crowded that it became suffocating.
• She found his constant attention suffocating.

Ideal for describing situations or conditions that feel overwhelmingly harsh or burdensome, often with a sense of prolonged suffering or unfair treatment. This word has a strong negative connotation.

• The oppressive heat of the desert made traveling unbearable.
• The government’s oppressive laws restricted their freedom.

Best used for describing extreme, oppressive heat that makes people feel uncomfortable or exhausted. This term is specific to describing temperature conditions.

• They spent the sweltering summer day at the beach.
• The sweltering heat made it impossible to work outdoors.

Stifling typically refers to an oppressive lack of ventilation or the feeling of being smothered, often due to heat or tight spaces. It can also describe situations where creativity or freedom is severely restricted.

• The stifling heat in the room made it unbearable to stay.
• Her parents' strict rules were stifling her independence.

Constrain is often used to describe limitations or restrictions imposed by circumstances, rules, or obligations.

• His busy schedule constrained his ability to spend time with family.
• The new regulations will constrain the company's growth.

Oppress has a strongly negative connotation and is often used in contexts involving severe, unjust treatment or control, especially in social, political, or emotional situations.

• The regime was known to oppress its citizens through censorship and violence.
• She felt oppressed by the constant criticism from her colleagues.

Smother generally refers to covering closely or excessively, often to the point of suffocation. It can also describe overwhelming someone with attention or affection.

• The thick blanket of snow smothered the landscape.
• His mother tended to smother him with concern, which made him feel overwhelmed.