CONSTRAIN Synonyms: 95 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'constrain' different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of constrain are coerce , compel , force , and oblige . While all these words mean "to make someone or something yield," constrain suggests the effect of a force or circumstance that limits freedom of action or choice. // constrained by conscience

Q: When could 'coerce' be used to replace 'constrain'?

Although the words coerce and constrain have much in common, coerce suggests overcoming resistance or unwillingness by actual or threatened violence or pressure. // coerced into signing over the rights

Q: When would 'compel' be a good substitute for 'constrain'?

The meanings of compel and constrain largely overlap; however, compel typically suggests overcoming of resistance or unwillingness by an irresistible force. // compelled to admit my mistake

Q: Where would 'force' be a reasonable alternative to 'constrain'?

While the synonyms force and constrain are close in meaning, force is the general term and implies the overcoming of resistance by the exertion of strength, power, or duress. // forced to flee for their lives

Q: When is 'oblige' a more appropriate choice than 'constrain'?

In some situations, the words oblige and constrain are roughly equivalent. However, oblige implies the constraint of necessity, law, or duty. // felt obliged to go

constrain

verb

kən-ˈstrān

Definition of constrain next

as in to compel

to cause (a person) to give in to pressure constrained by conscience to tell only the truth

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to regulate

to keep from exceeding a desirable degree or level (as of expression) constrained his anger at the needless interruption

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word constrain different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of constrain are coerce, compel, force, and oblige. While all these words mean "to make someone or something yield," constrain suggests the effect of a force or circumstance that limits freedom of action or choice.

constrained by conscience

When could coerce be used to replace constrain?

Although the words coerce and constrain have much in common, coerce suggests overcoming resistance or unwillingness by actual or threatened violence or pressure.

coerced into signing over the rights

When would compel be a good substitute for constrain?

The meanings of compel and constrain largely overlap; however, compel typically suggests overcoming of resistance or unwillingness by an irresistible force.

compelled to admit my mistake

Where would force be a reasonable alternative to constrain?

While the synonyms force and constrain are close in meaning, force is the general term and implies the overcoming of resistance by the exertion of strength, power, or duress.

forced to flee for their lives

When is oblige a more appropriate choice than constrain?

In some situations, the words oblige and constrain are roughly equivalent. However, oblige implies the constraint of necessity, law, or duty.

felt obliged to go

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of constrain The Biden administration expanded those controls in 2022 to more broadly constrain chip sales to China. —

Lionel Lim, Fortune Asia, 10 Dec. 2024 An array of other logistical and legal impediments also could constrain mass deportations, according to current and former ICE officials. —

Nick Miroff The Washington Post, arkansasonline.com, 8 Dec. 2024 With 2025 budget deliberations approaching, officials were projecting massive shortfalls, and Macron’s ability to buy his way out of a tight spot was clearly constrained. —

Lauren Collins, The New Yorker, 7 Dec. 2024 Japan and the Philippines are the treaty allies of the U.S., forming the first island chain with Taiwan to constrain Chinese naval and air activity in wartime. —

Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 28 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for constrain

Recent Examples of Synonyms for constrain

Verb

The Cabinet was then compelled to revoke the martial law before dawn on Dec. 4, ending Yoon's six hour long military rule.

Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2024
Related Articles Condo owner seeks $500-a-day fines to compel Boca View board to turn over financial records A corporation took over their condo.

Ron Hurtibise, Sun Sentinel, 10 Dec. 2024