constraint

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "constraint" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to something that limits or restricts something else. For example: "Time is a major constraint when trying to complete a difficult task."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I see no problem in exchanging data between British and American security – except where, as in the NSA's Prism program, it is a device to circumvent legal constraint.

The Guardian - Opinion

Notably, it added that even the threat of music piracy did not appear to be a sufficient constraint on the new company.

The Guardian - Business

The government has said the GIB won't be allowed to borrow until national debt declines as a percentage of GDP– a constraint which may not be met until 2017.

The Guardian

All of this was subject to negotiation with the Omanis, to environmental assessment and budgetary constraint - and in heat sometimes of 50°C.

The Guardian

Another time constraint is imposed by the foreign ministers.

The Guardian

On the one hand, we live in a world of increasing constraint.

The Guardian

Easterling emphasises how infrastructure is not just a physical constraint, it is also the hidden rules that structure urban life.

The Guardian - Tech

Significantly, however, the same constraint might not apply to the Tories if they were to seek an arrangement with the nationalists after 7 May.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is assumed that constraint at the top results in a contraction of the whole income distribution – one reason is that top earners, so research suggests, do not like those just beneath them in earning power getting too close to them.

The Guardian - Business

And even within that constraint, we can see that growth from 1960-78 was noticeably above the long-term trend.

The Economist

As for Mr Buchanan, he is enraged by the constraint on American unilateralism that WTO rules impose.Many of these concerns are not new.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing limitations in a formal setting, use "constraint" to add a layer of objectivity and professionalism. For example, using "budgetary constraints" sounds more professional than "money problems".

Common error

While both words imply limitation, "constraints" typically refer to external limitations or conditions, whereas "restraints" often relate to self-control or imposed control. Be mindful of this distinction to ensure accuracy in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "constraint" is as a noun, referring to something that limits or restricts. Ludwig AI affirms this usage, highlighting its role in expressing limitations in various contexts. Examples show it modifying scenarios or other entities to reflect a certain restriction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Formal & Business

27%

Science

26%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "constraint" functions primarily as a noun to denote a limitation or restriction. Ludwig AI confirms that this usage is grammatically correct and well-established. It is frequently employed in news, business, and scientific contexts, indicating a formal or neutral register. When writing, remember to differentiate "constraints" from "restraints", as the former refers to external limitations while the latter implies self-control. Consider using alternatives like "restriction" or "limitation" in more informal settings. Examples from Ludwig highlight the diverse applications of "constraint" in professional communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Limiting factor

Focuses on the aspect of actively imposing a limit, often in a specific scenario.

Restriction

Implies a rule or condition that limits what you can do.

Impediment

Stresses the idea of hindering progress or action.

Restraint

Emphasizes self-control or imposed control over actions.

Check

Highlights the idea of controlling or curbing something.

Curtailment

Indicates a reduction or restriction in something.

Encumbrance

Implies a burden or obstacle that slows down progress.

Circumscription

Suggests a clearly defined boundary or limitation.

Bottleneck

Highlights a point of congestion or blockage that limits flow.

Barrier

Focuses on an obstacle that prevents movement or progress.

FAQs

How can I use "constraint" in a sentence?

You can use "constraint" to refer to a limitation or restriction. For instance, "Time was a major constraint on the project's success."

What are some alternatives to the word "constraint"?

Alternatives include "restriction", "limitation", "impediment", and "restraint depending on the context".

Is it correct to use "constraint" in both formal and informal contexts?

"Constraint" is suitable for formal and professional contexts. In more informal settings, simpler words like "limitation" or "restriction" may be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "constraint" and "restraint"?

"Constraint" typically refers to external limitations, while "restraint" often implies self-control or imposed control. For example, "budget constraints" versus "emotional restraint".