constrain by

USAGE SUMMARY

'constrain by' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You use it to express the sense of limiting something or someone. For example, "The tight budget constraints all new projects by 20%".

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Consequently, it can only satisfy the receive DOF constrain by, but fails on the transmit DOF constraint since.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

The consumer's utility resulting from electricity usage and the consumption of other composite good is constrain by his/her income (m), given the market prices of the goods and services.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

But he was constrained by two things.

The New York Times

Teaching has been constrained by technology.

The Economist

Reality isn't constrained by studio notes.

The New York Times

Ought theatre be constrained by ethical considerations?

The Guardian

Politicians are constrained by public opinion.

The New York Times

And sometimes he was constrained by deals.

The New York Times - Books

Oprah's not constrained by that".

The New York Times

Conversation is no longer constrained by politics.

The New York Times - Travel

Mr. Pataki is also constrained by circumstance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "constrain by", ensure that the agent causing the constraint is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. For example, "Project timelines are constrained by budget limitations" provides a clearer understanding than "Project timelines are constrained."

Common error

Avoid overstating the impact of the constraint. Saying something is "completely constrained" might be inaccurate if there's still some flexibility. Instead, consider using qualifiers like "largely constrained" or "significantly constrained" to reflect a more nuanced situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "constrain by" functions as a passive verb construction indicating limitation or restriction. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. The auxiliary verb (e.g., is, are, was, were) precedes "constrain", followed by "by" and the agent or factor causing the restriction.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "constrain by" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express the idea of something being limited or restricted, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Although relatively rare in occurrence, it appears in various contexts, particularly in news and scientific publications. It serves to explain the reasons or sources of limitations. When using this phrase, clarity in identifying the agent causing the constraint is essential. While similar to alternatives like "limit by" and "restrict by", "constrain by" often implies a stronger or more formal sense of restriction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limit by

This alternative replaces "constrain" with the simpler verb "limit", offering a more direct expression of restriction.

restrict by

Similar to "limit by", this option substitutes "constrain" with "restrict", emphasizing a formal limitation.

inhibit by

This alternative suggests a hindering effect, where something is held back or prevented by a specific factor.

hamper by

Focuses on the impediment or difficulty caused by something, rather than a strict limitation.

circumscribe by

This option uses a more formal verb to indicate defining strict boundaries or limits.

bound by

Emphasizes being obligated or restricted by a rule, agreement, or principle.

curtail by

Suggests a reduction or cutback imposed by a specific factor.

impede by

This option highlights the obstruction or slowing down of progress due to something.

hold back by

Implies a restraining force that prevents full advancement or expression.

restrained by

This option adds an element of control or self-control, suggesting that someone or something is deliberately kept in check.

FAQs

How can I use "constrain by" in a sentence?

Use "constrain by" to indicate that something is being limited or restricted. For example, "Our options are "constrained by" the available resources".

What are some alternatives to "constrain by"?

Alternatives include "limit by", "restrict by", or "inhibit by", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "constrained by" or "limited by"?

Both "constrained by" and "limited by" are grammatically correct and similar in meaning. The choice depends on the context; "constrained by" often implies a more forceful or formal restriction than "limited by".

What's the difference between "constrain by" and "restrict by"?

"Constrain by" and "restrict by" are very similar. "Restrict by" often implies a clearer set of rules or boundaries, while "constrain by" can suggest a broader set of limitations or pressures.