bound by the constraints

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bound by the constraints" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means to be limited or restricted by certain rules or conditions. Example: Despite their creative ideas, the team was bound by the constraints of the project budget.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

He does not seem bound by the constraints of society; he appears to take pleasure in intimidating, in shocking.

The New York Times - Sports

"Science fiction involves a willing suspension of disbelief and it's not bound by the constraints of science.

The Guardian

Something cannot come out of nothing, and even a genius is bound by the constraints and opportunities of circumstance.

The Guardian - Books

With human ingenuity bound by the constraints of the human body, both technology and tactics were heavily shaped by geography, climate, and topography.

Encyclopedia Britannica

All places are up for grabs when the next team is chosen to play Sri Lanka in early June and they must not feel bound by the constraints of central contracts, another area the nature of which Downton will examine.

The Guardian - Sport

It is open to question whether Mrs. Clinton's account is the deliberate calculation of a politician out to overhaul her image, or a glimpse of the true feelings of a woman who is no longer bound by the constraints of being a president's wife.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

As designers, we're no longer bound by the strict constraints of nascent technology, and new games are even questioning what it means to 'win'.

The Guardian

Traditional services such as trade, hotels, restaurants and public administration remain largely bound by the old constraints.

The Economist

Web surfers, not bound by the same constraints, are able to turn to these sites to pull up candidates' speeches, videos of the proceedings and party position papers or to engage in political chat rooms when and for as long as they want.

The New York Times - Tech

American officials have for the most part kept silent — bound by the legal constraints of a classified C.I.A. program, but also taking advantage of the remoteness of the drones' main stalking grounds: North and South Waziristan, where few independent observers can travel.

The New York Times

Marc Thiessen isn't bound by the same constraints I am, and he's using the papers to spread falsehoods about my client.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bound by the constraints", ensure the constraints are clearly defined and relevant to the context. This provides clarity and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using overly broad or vague constraints that lack specificity. Instead, define precise and measurable limitations to enhance the clarity and credibility of your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bound by the constraints" typically functions as a descriptive element, often an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It indicates that the subject is limited or restricted by specific conditions, rules, or factors, as illustrated in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "bound by the constraints" is a grammatically sound and useful expression that indicates limitations or restrictions imposed on a subject. According to Ludwig, it functions descriptively, often modifying a noun, and serves to explain limitations or challenges. While not extremely frequent, it appears most commonly in news, scientific, and encyclopedia sources, suggesting a neutral to professional register. Alternatives like "limited by the constraints" or "subject to the constraints" can be used to vary your writing. When using the phrase, ensure the constraints are clearly defined to maximize clarity. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bound by the restraints

Replaces "constraints" with "restraints", implying a similar sense of limitation but potentially with a focus on external forces.

bound by the restrictions

Substitutes "constraints" with "restrictions", highlighting specific rules or limitations that must be followed.

bound by the limitations

Substitutes "constraints" with "limitations", focusing on inherent restrictions or deficiencies.

bound by the confines

Substitutes "constraints" with "confines", suggesting a restriction within specific boundaries or limits.

bound by the strictures

Replaces "constraints" with "strictures", implying limitations imposed by strong rules or moral principles.

limited by the constraints

Uses "limited by" instead of "bound by", emphasizing the restrictive effect of the constraints.

bound by the requirements

Replaces "constraints" with "requirements", indicating limitations imposed by necessities or demands.

subject to the constraints

Replaces "bound by" with "subject to", conveying a similar meaning of being under the influence or control of constraints.

circumscribed by the constraints

Replaces "bound by" with "circumscribed by", suggesting a more formal and precise limitation within defined boundaries.

governed by the constraints

Substitutes "bound by" with "governed by", emphasizing that the constraints dictate or control actions or outcomes.

FAQs

How can I use "bound by the constraints" in a sentence?

You can use "bound by the constraints" to indicate that something or someone is limited or restricted by specific conditions or rules. For example: "Despite their innovative ideas, the team was "bound by the constraints" of the project budget".

What are some alternatives to saying "bound by the constraints"?

Alternatives include phrases like "limited by the constraints", "subject to the constraints", or "restricted by the constraints", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "bound by the constraints" and "limited by the constraints"?

While both phrases convey a sense of restriction, ""bound by the constraints"" often suggests a more formal or obligatory limitation, whereas "limited by the constraints" can imply a more general or practical limitation.

Can "bound by the constraints" be used in both formal and informal contexts?

Yes, ""bound by the constraints"" is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, although it is more frequently found in formal writing and speech. In more informal settings, simpler alternatives might be preferred.