demonstrate restraint

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "demonstrate restraint" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of controlling one's emotions, actions, or impulses in a particular situation. Example: "In heated discussions, it is important to demonstrate restraint to maintain a respectful dialogue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Her task was to demonstrate restraint.

The New York Times

And they must demonstrate restraint even at the expense of their lives.

The New York Times

Sparrows, seals, monkeys, orangutans, chimps, rats and hens have all been shown to demonstrate restraint.

The New York Times

Rwanda has to demonstrate restraint, avoid looting and quickly withdraw the several thousand troops it now has in Congo.

The Economist

In 2009 the bank cut this so-called compensation ratio to 35.8% – the lowest since it went public in 1999 – in attempt to demonstrate restraint.

The Guardian - Business

Mr. Bush and the American military command may understand clearly how crucial it is to demonstrate restraint, especially as war begins to shade into postwar reconstruction.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Carroll, for the most part, demonstrates restraint.

The Washington Post

He said the Drug Enforcement Administration agent, Jude Tanella, "demonstrated restraint, sound judgment and courage in the proper exercise of his sworn duty to protect the public".

The New York Times

Both sides have likewise demonstrated restraint and a new readiness to cooperate on threats to shared interests in the greater Eurasian region.

The New York Times

"These awards follow exhaustive consultation with our shareholders and we believe they appropriately balance demonstrating restraint while remaining fully supportive of our leadership through the RBS turnaround plan," the bank said.

The Guardian - Business

It would have been much easier and faster for the father to tie the shoes, but he demonstrated restraint and allowed the boy to do it on his own.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "demonstrate restraint", ensure the context clearly indicates what action or emotion is being controlled. For example, "demonstrate restraint in spending" or "demonstrate restraint in expressing anger."

Common error

While "demonstrate restraint" is grammatically correct, overuse in formal writing can make it sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "exercise self-control" or "show moderation" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "demonstrate restraint" functions as a verb phrase, where "demonstrate" is the verb and "restraint" is the direct object. It describes the act of showing or exhibiting control over one's actions, emotions, or impulses. Ludwig AI confirms its proper use through various examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "demonstrate restraint" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to describe the act of showing self-control. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it appears most frequently in news and media, academic, and scientific contexts, indicating its relevance across various domains. While the phrase is suitable for formal writing, it's advisable to vary your language to avoid repetition, using alternatives like "exercise self-control" or "show moderation". Remember to clearly define what action or emotion is being controlled when using this phrase to ensure clarity. The phrase carries a neutral tone but leans toward a professional register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise self-control

Focuses on the internal act of controlling oneself, rather than an outward demonstration.

show moderation

Emphasizes avoiding extremes in behavior or expression.

practice temperance

Implies a habitual and disciplined approach to controlling desires and impulses.

exhibit composure

Highlights maintaining a calm and steady demeanor, especially under pressure.

maintain control

Stresses the ongoing effort to keep one's actions or emotions in check.

curb impulses

Specifically addresses the act of suppressing sudden urges or desires.

hold back

A more informal way of saying to restrain oneself from acting or speaking.

keep a lid on

Suggests suppressing emotions or actions to prevent them from escalating.

refrain from

Highlights the act of abstaining from a particular action or behavior.

keep it down

Informal, it emphasizes the need to reduce intensity or excitement.

FAQs

How can I use "demonstrate restraint" in a sentence?

You can use "demonstrate restraint" to describe situations where someone is controlling their actions or emotions. For example, "The police officer had to "show restraint" when dealing with the angry crowd."

What are some alternatives to "demonstrate restraint"?

Some alternatives include "exercise self-control", "show moderation", or "practice temperance". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "demonstrate restraint" or "exercise restraint"?

Both "demonstrate restraint" and "exercise restraint" are grammatically correct. "Exercise restraint" emphasizes the act of using control, while "demonstrate restraint" highlights the outward display of that control.

What does it mean to "demonstrate operational restraint"?

To "demonstrate operational restraint" typically means to use caution and moderation in military or strategic operations, avoiding unnecessary force or escalation. It's often used in political or diplomatic contexts.