Reading Theme:
Constraint: Definition, Examples, and Usage Tips (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：restriction (constraint)
constraint
/kənˈstreɪnt/
n.
Something that controls what you can do by setting rules or limits.
restriction
➕
/rɪˈstrɪkʃən/
n.
A rule or condition that prevents something from being done freely; a limiting factor that sets boundaries.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'constringere' (con- 'together' + stringere 'to draw tight').
💡 Mnemonic
Think 'con' (together) + 'strain' (pull). A constraint strains you together, restricting your freedom.
📖 Example
The main constraint on our holiday plans was our tight budget.
The main restriction on our holiday plans was our tight budget.
🔗 Collocations
time constraint – a limit on the time available to complete something
budget constraint – a limit on the amount of money available for something
legal constraint – a restriction imposed by law or regulation
🔄 Synonyms
restriction (n.) – a limiting condition or rule
limitation (n.) – a boundary or point beyond which something cannot be or is not allowed
curb (n.) – a check or restraint on something
🚫 Antonyms
freedom (n.) – the power or right to act, speak, or think without hindrance
flexibility (n.) – the ability to adapt or change without being limited
liberty (n.) – the state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions
🌱 Derivatives
constrain (v.) – to limit or restrict something or someone
constrained (adj.) – limited or restricted in some way
📖 Cultural Story
Originating from Latin 'constringere' meaning to bind together, 'constraint' entered English via Old French. It is widely used in contexts like law, engineering, and economics to denote a binding limit.
Meaning 2：unease (constraint)
constraint
/kənˈstreɪnt/
n.
A feeling of being uncomfortable and not free to behave naturally.
unease
➕
/ʌnˈiːz/
n.
A feeling of being uncomfortable, unnatural, or restricted in social situations, often due to perceived rules or expectations.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
She felt a certain constraint in the presence of her new boss and couldn't speak freely.
She experienced a sense of unease around her new boss and was unable to express herself freely.
🔗 Collocations
social constraint – a feeling of being limited by social norms or expectations
emotional constraint – a restriction on expressing one's true feelings
feel constraint – to experience a sense of inhibition or restriction
🔄 Synonyms
inhibition (n.) – a feeling of shyness or embarrassment that restricts natural behavior
discomfort (n.) – a feeling of unease or slight pain, especially in social settings
awkwardness (n.) – a feeling of being clumsy or socially uncomfortable
🚫 Antonyms
ease (n.) – a state of comfort, relaxation, and naturalness
comfort (n.) – a state of physical ease and freedom from pain or constraint
naturalness (n.) – the quality of being relaxed and unrehearsed in behavior
🌱 Derivatives
constrained (adj.) – feeling or showing restriction, especially in behavior
constraining (adj.) – causing a feeling of restriction or limitation
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