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

Zhang Wei | China News Service via Getty Images Tech stocks listed in Hong Kong fell into correction territory Monday, as investors booked profits, while trade war uncertainty and U.S. moves to restrict Beijing’s access to high-end tech also weighed on sentiment. —Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 31 Mar. 2025

The lawsuits come after President Trump signed executive orders this week, which attempted to restrict both firms' access to federal buildings, yank any active security clearances held by its personnel, and direct government employees not to meet with the firm or its members. —Carrie Johnson, NPR, 28 Mar. 2025

Efforts by some lawmakers and advocacy groups to impose unnecessary regulations on private schools or to restrict the flexibility of Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) risk undermining the very freedoms that make school choice successful. —Skylar Zander, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Mar. 2025

Firearm purchases by those under 21 were routinely restricted from the late 1700s into the 1800s, Lorenz noted. —Christian Martinez, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Mar. 2025