exceptional restraint

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exceptional restraint" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone demonstrates a high level of self-control or moderation, often in challenging circumstances. Example: "In the face of provocation, she showed exceptional restraint by not responding to the insults."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

I showed exceptional restraint by only eating two dozen, and a plate of fried green tomatoes, a bowl of excellent gumbo and two howitzers of beer.

The New York Times - Travel

He complained that, despite the "exceptional restraint" that his country has shown battling Palestinian terrorists, it has been criticized more for its weeklong military operation than the United States has for its six-month campaign in Afghanistan.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

A campaign conducted by U.S. intelligence services and military forces with exceptional patience, restraint and care in targeting is vilified for political gain and ideological pleasure.

The Washington Post

But if it's successful, we'll just have to adjust and return to our Puritan roots of practising exceptional sexual restraint.

Vice

It's a touching and adventurous little film called Bluebird, filled with exceptional acting and restraint and intensely human drama.

Huffington Post

Others say Internet companies, like governments, should be flexible enough to exercise restraint under exceptional circumstances, especially when lives are at stake.

The New York Times - Tech

As with most First Amendment jurisprudence, the decision recognized that there could be exceptional circumstances in which prior restraints may be allowable, notably in the context of national security.

Yale University

In Switzerland, according to a new law valid since January 2013, the use of physical restraints is allowed under exceptional circumstances only for residents who are at risk of harming themselves or others [ 21].

BMC Geriatrics

However, enjoining proceedings in another state requires an exceptional circumstance that outweighs the threat to judicial restraint and comity principles.

Harvard University

Although surprising in terms of its challenge to conventional wisdom about a proliferation pandemic, our conclusion is consistent with the historically slow pace of proliferation and the exceptional circumstances that must pertain for states to abandon nuclear restraint.

The New York Times

His painting showed exceptional mastery of space and light and exuded naturalness and restraint, both in its objectivity and choice of colors, often browns and ochers.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the specific context when choosing between "exceptional restraint" and similar phrases like "remarkable self-control" or "extraordinary moderation", as each carries slightly different connotations.

Common error

Don't use "exceptional restraint" to describe simply following rules or norms. It's best used when facing unusual temptations or difficulties.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exceptional restraint" functions as a noun phrase, where "exceptional" modifies the noun "restraint". The adjective emphasizes the high degree or quality of the restraint. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

32%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exceptional restraint" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English, denoting a high degree of self-control or moderation. While relatively rare in occurrence, the phrase is appropriate for formal and neutral contexts, often appearing in news, academic, and scientific sources. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes situations where individuals or entities exhibit admirable self-control, particularly when facing challenging circumstances. Alternatives include "remarkable self-control" and "extraordinary moderation".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

admirable restraint

Similar to the original phrase, but emphasizes the praiseworthy nature of the restraint.

commendable self-control

Emphasizes that the self-control is deserving of praise.

remarkable self-control

Emphasizes the control aspect, highlighting the ability to manage one's impulses or emotions effectively.

impressive moderation

Focuses on the fact that moderation is particularly striking and worthy of attention.

extraordinary moderation

Focuses on avoiding extremes and maintaining a balanced approach.

outstanding composure

Highlights the calmness displayed in a challenging situation, using "outstanding" to emphasize its quality.

unusual composure

Highlights the calmness and collectedness displayed in a challenging situation.

great forbearance

Suggests patience and tolerance, especially when provoked.

exemplary self-discipline

Emphasizes adherence to rules and principles of conduct.

notable temperance

Focuses on abstaining from excess or indulgence.

FAQs

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

You can use "exceptional restraint" to describe a situation where someone demonstrates a high level of self-control or moderation, often in challenging circumstances. For example: "Despite the provocation, she showed "exceptional restraint" by not responding to the insults."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "exceptional restraint"?

You can use alternatives like "remarkable self-control", "extraordinary moderation", or "admirable restraint" depending on the context.

Is "exceptional restraint" formal or informal?

"Exceptional restraint" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it is more commonly found in formal writing and speech due to its descriptive and somewhat elevated tone.

What distinguishes "exceptional restraint" from "good behavior"?

"Exceptional restraint" implies a deliberate effort to control oneself in the face of temptation or difficulty, while "good behavior" generally refers to adherence to established rules or norms. "Exceptional restraint" suggests a higher degree of self-mastery than simply exhibiting "good behavior".