exert restraint

USAGE SUMMARY

"exert restraint" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to use self-control or hold back from doing something. Example: Despite the temptation to speak out, she was able to exert restraint and keep her opinions to herself during the meeting.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Delegates call for Israel to exert restraint and plan to work towards peace, but calls for an immediate ceasefire are again blocked by opposition from the US and Britain.

The Guardian

Thomas Mayer, an adviser to Deutsche Bank, thinks that Mr Weidmann's strategy of open opposition is enabling him to exert restraint on the ECB council for example, in limiting the bonds that will be bought under the OMT programme to ones with a residual maturity of up to three years.Principles or pragmatismAnd although Mr Weidmann is at odds with Mr Draghi, in reality he is confronting Mrs Merkel.

The Economist

Exert restraint in planning each class session.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

This orderly process is controlled by the primary tumour that can exert restraints on the transition between dormancy phases by not yet well elucidated mechanisms, thus retarding or inhibiting metastasis development.

BMC Cancer

Having guided the huge span of the first movement faultlessly to its shattering climax and profoundly unsettling close, Haitink made the two scherzos that follow all the more menacing by exerting restraint and keeping them rhythmically tight.

The Guardian - Music

We call for an immediate ceasefire and urge everybody to exert maximum restraint".

The Guardian

"While all should exert maximum restraint, we underline the particular responsibility of the interim authorities and of the army in bringing clashes to a halt.

The Guardian

But in Beijing's highest-level response so far, China's premier, Wen Jiabao, merely called on all sides to exert "maximum restraint".

The Guardian

Moreover, the intensification of financial market turmoil is likely to exert additional restraint on spending, partly by further reducing the ability of households and businesses to obtain credit.

Forbes

"The intensification of financial market turmoil is likely to exert additional restraint on spending, partly by further reducing the ability of households and businesses to obtain credit".

Forbes

Higher costs of capital for these companies likely is exerting some restraint on overall business capital spending.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When urging someone to avoid escalating a conflict, use "exert restraint" to emphasize the need for careful, controlled action rather than complete inaction.

Common error

Avoid using "exert restraint" when the situation calls for decisive action. "Exert restraint" implies a conscious holding back, which is inappropriate if immediate action is required.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exert restraint" functions as a verb phrase where "exert" acts as a transitive verb taking "restraint" as its direct object. This signifies an action (exerting) applied to a state or quality (restraint). Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

33%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exert restraint" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of consciously controlling one's actions or emotions. Though Ludwig AI identifies it as correct and usable, it appears less frequently in writing. The phrase is suitable for neutral and formal contexts, often appearing in news and media, as well as scientific writing. When aiming to convey careful control in situations that could easily escalate, this phrase is a solid option.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise self-control

Emphasizes the personal agency in controlling one's actions or emotions.

show moderation

Focuses on avoiding extremes in behavior or expression.

practice temperance

Highlights the quality of being restrained and avoiding excess.

demonstrate forbearance

Implies patience and tolerance in the face of provocation.

hold back

A simpler, more direct way of expressing restraint.

use self-discipline

Stresses the disciplined approach to controlling impulses.

curb impulses

Specifically addresses the control of sudden urges.

keep a lid on

An informal expression for suppressing something.

control oneself

General term meaning to remain in command of your own behavior

practice self-government

Highlights acting with reason and principles.

FAQs

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

You can use "exert restraint" to describe a conscious effort to control one's actions, emotions, or reactions in a given situation. For example, "The diplomat had to exert restraint during the tense negotiations."

What's the difference between "exercise restraint" and "exert restraint"?

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, "exercise restraint" often suggests a more active and deliberate application of self-control, whereas "exert restraint" emphasizes the effort or force used to maintain that control.

Are there situations where it's not appropriate to "exert restraint"?

Yes, "exert restraint" is not appropriate in situations where immediate and decisive action is necessary. In such cases, holding back could be detrimental or dangerous. Prioritizing safety can be a more responsible decision.

What are some synonyms for "exert restraint"?

Synonyms for "exert restraint" include "exercise self-control", "show moderation", and "practice temperance", each carrying slightly different nuances.