RESTRICT Synonyms: 30 Similar and Opposite Words

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

Some common synonyms of restrict are circumscribe , confine , and limit . While all these words mean "to set bounds for," restrict suggests a narrowing or tightening or restraining within or as if within an encircling boundary. // laws intended to restrict the freedom of the press

Q: When might 'circumscribe' be a better fit than 'restrict'?

The words circumscribe and restrict are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, circumscribe stresses a restriction on all sides and by clearly defined boundaries. // the work of the investigating committee was carefully circumscribed

Q: When can 'confine' be used instead of 'restrict'?

Although the words confine and restrict have much in common, confine suggests severe restraint and a resulting cramping, fettering, or hampering. // our choices were confined by finances

Q: When would 'limit' be a good substitute for 'restrict'?

In some situations, the words limit and restrict are roughly equivalent. However, limit implies setting a point or line (as in time, space, speed, or degree) beyond which something cannot or is not permitted to go. // visits are limited to 30 minutes

restrict

verb

ri-ˈstrikt

Definition of restrict next

as in to limit

to set bounds or an upper limit for will restrict access to the laboratory

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Some common synonyms of restrict are circumscribe, confine, and limit. While all these words mean "to set bounds for," restrict suggests a narrowing or tightening or restraining within or as if within an encircling boundary.

laws intended to restrict the freedom of the press

When might circumscribe be a better fit than restrict?

The words circumscribe and restrict are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, circumscribe stresses a restriction on all sides and by clearly defined boundaries.

the work of the investigating committee was carefully circumscribed

When can confine be used instead of restrict?

Although the words confine and restrict have much in common, confine suggests severe restraint and a resulting cramping, fettering, or hampering.

our choices were confined by finances

When would limit be a good substitute for restrict?

In some situations, the words limit and restrict are roughly equivalent. However, limit implies setting a point or line (as in time, space, speed, or degree) beyond which something cannot or is not permitted to go.

visits are limited to 30 minutes

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 restrict It's also not restricted to one position, it can be placed where it's needed. —

Paul Ridden, New Atlas, 4 Dec. 2024 There are concerns that China could go further and restrict the export of nickel or cobalt, which are both major components of the rechargeable batteries found in electronic devices; such a move could prompt prices to spike and many countries beyond the U.S. to search for their own supplies. —

Byandrew Nusca, Fortune, 4 Dec. 2024 As of September 30, 2024, the company had cash and restricted cash of approximately $1,337,000, down from $3,771,000 at the end of 2023. —

Quartz Bot, Quartz, 4 Dec. 2024 State lawmakers in Montana on Tuesday rejected a proposal that could have restricted bathroom access for transgender lawmakers at the State Capitol in Helena. —

Jacey Fortin, New York Times, 4 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for restrict