degrees of restraint

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "degrees of restraint" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe varying levels or measures of self-control or limitation in behavior or action. Example: "In negotiations, different parties may exhibit degrees of restraint, influencing the outcome of the discussions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Researchers have argued that these vastly different foraging experiences explain why the monkeys show different degrees of restraint in the lab.

The New Yorker

The thermal stress analysis includes the evaluation of thermal expansion stresses, shrinkage stresses, the degrees of restraint, and the creep stresses developed over time.

International Journal of Advanced Structural Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Whether the degree of restraint was a shift in official policy was unclear.

The New York Times

It also points to an unusual degree of restraint among developers in Europe's second-largest property market (by transactions).

The Economist

Over-the-topcoats still involve a degree of restraint: you're not on your way to clown class in them.

The New York Times

And in a time when some belt-tightening will undoubtedly be required, that seems a manageable degree of restraint.

The New York Times

They have also inspired a degree of restraint on India's part and pledges of coöperation on Pakistan's that are less familiar and more encouraging.

The New Yorker

Especially when the tragedy is as dire as Haiti's, success is measured not just in the many millions of dollars raised, but by the degree of restraint.

The New York Times

After a day of extraordinary statements – attacking women who have accused him of sexual assault, and invoking shocking antisemitic tropes – Donald Trump exercised what might be seen as a rare degree of restraint.

The Guardian

The NYPD claims to have arrested roughly a dozen people, and while a majority of officers practised a noticeable degree of restraint, videos depict several confrontations involving heavy-handed police tactics.

The Guardian

The glowing reports run counter to predictions from the Westchester-Putnam Multiple Listing Service, worriedorried as recently as late January that the gyrations of the stock market might instill a degree of restraint among prospective home buyers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing political or social issues, use "degrees of restraint" to objectively describe the level of control exercised by different parties, avoiding judgmental language.

Common error

Avoid assuming that demonstrating "degrees of restraint" equates to a lack of strength or resolve. Restraint often requires significant self-control and strategic thinking.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "degrees of restraint" functions as a noun phrase, often used to describe the extent or level of self-control, moderation, or limitation exhibited in a particular situation. Ludwig confirms the usability of the phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

44%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase “degrees of restraint” is a grammatically correct and usable English phrase to describe varying levels of self-control or limitation. As verified by Ludwig, it commonly appears in both news media and scientific contexts. When using the phrase, be mindful of the nuance between simply limiting actions and applying strategic control. Consider alternative phrases like "levels of control" or "measures of self-control" depending on the specific context and desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

levels of control

This alternative focuses on the extent of power or influence exerted, rather than the act of holding back.

measures of self-control

This alternative highlights the internal capacity to regulate one's own behavior.

varying levels of moderation

This alternative emphasizes the avoidance of extremes and maintaining balance.

different levels of limitation

This alternative focuses on the extent to which something is restricted or confined.

stages of inhibition

This alternative suggests a process of suppressing or restraining an impulse or behavior.

extents of self-discipline

This alternative highlights the practice of training oneself to obey rules or a code of behavior.

scales of temperance

This alternative refers to the practice of abstaining from alcoholic drink or showing moderation.

graded levels of constraint

This alternative emphasizes the force or restriction that limits someone's actions.

degrees of circumspection

This alternative points to caution and unwillingness to take risks.

amount of continence

This alternative refers to self-restraint, especially with regard to sexual activity.

FAQs

How can I use "degrees of restraint" in a sentence?

You can use "degrees of restraint" to describe varying levels of self-control or limitation in behavior. For example: "The negotiators showed different "levels of restraint" during the talks."

What is a more formal way to say "degrees of restraint"?

A more formal alternative could be "measures of limitation" or "levels of control", depending on the specific context. Consider the formality of your audience when choosing between "degrees of restraint" and its alternatives.

What does "exercising a degree of restraint" mean?

To "exercise a degree of restraint" means to show self-control and moderation in one's actions or words. It implies a conscious effort to limit one's behavior.

Is it "degree of restraint" or "degrees of restraint"?

"Degree of restraint" refers to a general level, while "degrees of restraint" refers to multiple or varying levels of self-control or limitation. For example, "The officer showed a high "degree of restraint"" versus "The participants exhibited different "degrees of restraint"."