Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a physical restriction
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "a physical restriction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a limitation or barrier that is tangible or corporeal in nature, often in contexts related to health, fitness, or physical environments. Example: "The athlete faced a physical restriction due to an injury, which hindered her performance during the competition."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
5 human-written examples
As far as emotions go during this process, not having a physical restriction is the toughest part".
News & Media
Limited duty involved a physical restriction that prevented the conscript from fully participating in military training events.
Shotgun optical mapping, as previously described [ 20, 51- 55], was used to construct a physical restriction map for the S397 genome.
Science
In addition to prescribing order to a group of cells, cell adhesion imposes a physical restriction that inhibits cell division when in contact with a neighbouring cell, a process known as contact inhibition.
Science
A dwarfing rootstock genotype used as an inter-stem appeared to work as a physical restriction to water movement, reducing potential xylem flow and conductance of the whole tree.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
55 human-written examples
Thus, it appeared as if the dwarfing rootstock genotype used as an inter-stem functioned as a kind of physical restriction to water movement and probably reduced the hydraulic conductance of the whole tree.
Science
But what the bingeing most often really represents is a biological response to physical restriction.
News & Media
The US instead imposed "disciplinary measures" in both cases, ones that "could include letters of reprimand, a reduction in rank, forfeit of some pay, physical restriction to a military base, extra duties or some combination of those measures".
News & Media
The Marine Corps said three non-commissioned officers involved in a video that shows four Marines urinating on the body of a dead Taliban fighter received "nonjudicial punishments," which could include letters of reprimand, a reduction in rank, forfeit of some pay, physical restriction to a military base, extra duties or some combination of those measures.
News & Media
The processing and storage in our phones, usually in system on a chip form, have been gaining speed for the last few years, but there are a few physical restrictions that prevent them from working at full capacity.
News & Media
LaCoDa uses a small node degree that matches physical restriction for servers, and it also interconnects a large number of servers while reducing the wiring complexity and without affecting the existing servers.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "a physical restriction", ensure the context clearly specifies what is being limited or constrained. This can involve naming the affected body part or the activity that is difficult to perform.
Common error
Avoid using "a physical restriction" when a more specific term accurately describes the limitation. For example, instead of saying someone has "a physical restriction" due to a broken leg, specify that they have "limited mobility" or "impaired ambulation".
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a physical restriction" functions primarily as a noun phrase within a sentence. It typically serves as the object of a verb or preposition, denoting a tangible or corporeal limitation. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts, from medical conditions to limitations in sports.
Frequent in
Science
50%
News & Media
41%
Encyclopedias
9%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "a physical restriction" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a tangible limitation related to physical capabilities. According to Ludwig, it appears most frequently in scientific and news contexts, maintaining a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure that the specific nature of the limitation is clearly defined for the reader. Alternative phrases, such as "a bodily limitation" or "a mobility impairment", can offer more specific descriptions depending on the context.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a physical barrier
This alternative suggests an object or condition that physically blocks movement or access. It can apply to environmental or bodily contexts.
a bodily limitation
This alternative focuses on the body as the source of the restriction. It highlights limits originating from physical health.
a physical impediment
This highlights an obstacle to physical movement. This term can be used in the context of health and physical training.
a physical disability
This term signifies a long-term impairment affecting physical capabilities. It is often used in discussions about accessibility and inclusive practices.
a corporeal constraint
This alternative uses more formal language, emphasizing the material or bodily nature of the restriction. It's more suitable for technical or academic contexts.
a tangible limitation
This emphasizes that the limitation is real and concrete. It can apply to both physical and environmental contexts.
a mobility impairment
This phrase specifies that the restriction relates to the ability to move freely. It's particularly applicable when discussing disabilities.
a physical encumbrance
This alternative suggests a burden or hindrance that makes movement difficult. It can relate to both health and physical burdens.
a functional limitation
This phrase highlights how a physical condition restricts normal activities or functions. Useful in medical or rehabilitative contexts.
a motor skill deficit
This refers to limitations in the execution of physical skills. It is commonly used in discussions about motor control and coordination.
FAQs
How can I use "a physical restriction" in a sentence?
You can use "a physical restriction" to describe limitations caused by injury, illness, or disability. For instance, "The surgery left her with "a physical restriction" that made running difficult".
What are some alternatives to "a physical restriction"?
Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a bodily limitation", "a physical barrier", or "a mobility impairment".
Is it correct to say "physical restriction" without the article "a"?
While "physical restriction" without the article "a" can be used, it is generally less common and often sounds less natural, especially in general contexts. The article "a" usually indicates a specific, countable instance of a physical limitation.
How does "a physical restriction" differ from "a mental limitation"?
"A physical restriction" refers to limitations related to the body's capabilities, while "a mental limitation" refers to cognitive or psychological constraints. The former involves physical health or ability, while the latter involves mental processes.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested