Constrain (Verb)
Meaning 1
Compel to behave in a certain way; "Social relations impose courtesy"; "duty constrains one to act often contrary to one's desires or inclinations".
Classification
Verbs of political and social activities and events.
Examples
- A sense of duty will constrain her to tell the truth even if she doesn't want to.
- The fear of being caught constrains many people from committing crimes.
- His strict upbringing constrains him to be polite to everyone he meets.
- Professional ethics constrain doctors from disclosing confidential patient information.
- Her love for her family constrains her to put their needs before her own.
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Meaning 2
To close within bounds, or otherwise limit or deprive of free movement; "This holds the local until the express passengers change trains"; "About a dozen animals were held inside the stockade"; "The illegal immigrants were held at a detention center"; "The terrorists held the journalists for ransom".
Classification
Verbs of touching, hitting, tying, digging.
Examples
- Metal bars were used to constrain the prisoner to his cell, limiting his ability to move around freely.
- The fencing is in place to constrain the cattle to a certain area of the farm to prevent them from escaping.
- Her fear of heights began to constrain her movements as she climbed the winding staircase.
- The rules of the contest are meant to constrain the creativity of the contestants within certain guidelines.
- A strict diet and exercise regime helped to constrain her weight to a healthy level after months of hard work.
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Meaning 3
Severely restrict in scope or extent; "tighten the rules"; "stiffen the regulations".
Classification
Verbs of size, temperature change, intensifying, etc..
Examples
- The government will constrain spending on non-essential services to balance the budget.
- Harsher laws and regulations will constrain the actions of those who harm the environment.
- These new policies constrain our company's ability to expand its operations internationally.
- Schools must constrain the excessive use of social media by students during class hours.
- Tight economic conditions will constrain many consumers' ability to spend lavishly on consumer goods.