constraining the ability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "constraining the ability" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing limitations or restrictions on someone's or something's capacity to perform a task or function. Example: "The new regulations are constraining the ability of small businesses to compete in the market."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

By ignoring early warnings, withdrawing aid and constraining the ability of humanitarian organisations to operate in Somalia, western donors made famine more, not less likely.

The Guardian

In fact, we find that US-style trade agreements are the most severe in constraining the ability of developing countries to deploy such policy.

The Guardian - Opinion

The regulations include details of tougher capital requirements constraining the ability of those institutions to fund their operations with borrowed money.

The New York Times

"Weakness in banks' balance sheets and uncertainty about their quality are contributing to fragmentation, constraining the ability and willingness of banks to support credit and investment," the IMF said.

The Guardian - Business

We have reason to contract, according to Buchanan, in order to increase the overall ability of everyone to produce by limiting the need for defense by constraining the ability to engage in predation.

SEP

To date, M&E of transition processes has been relatively neglected, thus constraining the ability to learn from transition.

Global health, science and practice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

"It will constrain the ability of pupils to specialise in areas of the curriculum they enjoy," he says.

The Guardian

Some have said a 76-point agreement actually constrained the ability of the audience to interact with politicians in a more free-flowing debate.

The Guardian

The separation of powers and the checks and balances characteristic of democratic political systems constrain the ability of elected leaders to move their countries rashly toward war.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Iran must also suspend enrichment at Fordo and accept conditions that "constrain the ability to quickly resume enrichment there," the official said, without being specific.

The New York Times

Loans and grants from rich nations account for 10percentt of total economic activity, and a heavy debt burden constrains the ability of governments to put their fiscal houses in order.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "constraining the ability", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being limited and the reasons behind the limitation for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "constraining the ability" without specifying the area or task that's being affected. Lack of specificity can lead to ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "constraining the ability" functions as a gerund phrase acting as a verbal noun, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence, or part of a longer noun phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "constraining the ability" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe limitations or restrictions on capacity. It is most frequently found in science and news contexts, suitable for neutral to formal communication. As Ludwig AI confirms, its meaning is clear, and its usage is supported by numerous authoritative sources. When using it, be specific about what is being limited and why to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "restricting the ability" or "limiting the capacity" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Restricting the ability

This alternative focuses on setting limits or boundaries, highlighting a degree of control in curtailing capacity.

Limiting the capacity

This alternative emphasizes reducing the maximum amount or extent of what can be done.

Restraining the capacity

This alternative emphasizes holding back or controlling the extent of someone's capabilities.

Impeding the capability

This alternative underscores the act of hindering or obstructing someone's inherent potential to perform.

Impairing the faculty

This alternative highlights the damaging of one's natural or mental ability to do something.

Hindering the potential

This alternative highlights the obstruction of someone's latent qualities to improve or develop.

Reducing the competence

This alternative focuses on lessening one's skill or proficiency to do something successfully.

Diminishing the aptitude

This alternative highlights reducing someone's natural talent or skill.

Circumscribing the scope

This alternative emphasizes defining the limits of a particular range of action or thought.

Curtailed the power

The alternative focuses on reducing or restricting authority and influence.

FAQs

How can I use "constraining the ability" in a sentence?

You can use "constraining the ability" to describe situations where something limits or restricts someone's capacity to perform a specific action or task. For example, "Budget cuts are "constraining the ability" of schools to provide adequate resources".

What are some alternatives to saying "constraining the ability"?

Alternatives include phrases like "restricting the ability", "limiting the capacity", or "impeding the capability", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "constraining the ability" or "limiting the ability"?

Both "constraining the ability" and "limiting the ability" are correct and usable, but they might have slightly different connotations. "Constraining" suggests a more forceful restriction, while "limiting" simply indicates a boundary or upper limit. The choice depends on the specific context.

What does it mean when something is "constraining the ability"?

When something is "constraining the ability", it means that it is restricting or limiting the capacity of someone or something to perform a particular task or function. It implies that the ability is not completely absent, but it is being hindered in some way.