Synonyms of restrict

restrict

verb

ri-ˈstrikt 

as in to limit

to set bounds or an upper limit for

will restrict access to the laboratory

Synonyms & Similar Words

• limit
• confine
• tighten
• hinder
• impede
• hold down
• circumscribe
• suppress
• obstruct
• cap
• block
• hamper
• modify
• narrow
• lessen
• repress
• constrict
• number
• bar
• squeeze
• quell
• qualify
• contract
• pinch

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• exceed
• expand
• broaden
• widen
• overextend
• overreach

Synonym Chooser

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of restrict

Wang, who clerked for two former Supreme Court justices, has said her American citizenship was made possible by the 14th Amendment’s birthright citizenship guarantee and by changes to laws that had restricted Asian immigration. —Maureen Groppe, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2026

Across parts of the Arab world, the Muslim Brotherhood has been banned or restricted for years. —Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 1 Apr. 2026

The suspect was restricted as a guest last June, meaning he was supposed to no longer be allowed to visit the building. —Kerry Burke, New York Daily News, 1 Apr. 2026

Australian wheat farmers are planting less, and China has restricted fertilizer exports. —Freddie Clayton, NBC news, 1 Apr. 2026