given the constraints

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "given the constraints" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing limitations or restrictions that affect a situation or decision. Example: "Given the constraints of our budget, we will need to prioritize the most essential features for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"But given the constraints, I welcomed the funding I got".

The New York Times - Magazine

It did as well as it could do, given the constraints that were on it.

The New York Times

But given the constraints, it is what I set out to make.

The New York Times

(Although, arguably, no state truly had marriage equality before Windsor, given the constraints of DOMA).

The New Yorker

You find the small things that work, given the constraints, and you build on those".

The New Yorker

Paradoxically, given the constraints remaining in their own country, the Castro brothers played a role, too.

The New Yorker

Ms. Vartanian thought that the organic foods were fine, given the constraints of her schedule.

The New York Times

But that's usually impossible, given the constraints imposed by airports and parking gates.

The New York Times

"The land would struggle to be worth £1m on the commercial market, given the constraints on its development.

The Guardian

"But given the constraints we have with the shrinkage of bases, we kind of have to do this.

The New York Times

Given the constraints on the city's budget, private sources will have to cover the initial capital expense, they said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "given the constraints", clearly articulate what those constraints are to provide context and avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "Given the constraints, we made the best decision", specify what constraints influenced the decision: "Given the constraints of the limited budget and tight deadline, we made the best decision".

Common error

Avoid assuming that constraints are universally understood. Even if they seem obvious to you, explicitly state them to ensure your audience comprehends the context fully. Failure to do so can lead to misinterpretations and flawed evaluations of your actions or decisions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "given the constraints" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a clause or sentence by providing context related to existing limitations. As confirmed by Ludwig, it sets the stage for understanding decisions or outcomes within specific restrictive parameters.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "given the constraints" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to acknowledge limitations and provide context for decisions, situations, or outcomes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, ranging from formal reports to informal discussions. Its frequency, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, is very common, particularly in news, science, and business publications. Effective use involves clearly articulating the constraints to avoid ambiguity. While "given the constraints" can be used neutrally, related phrases like "despite the constraints" offer different connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

taking into account the limitations

Focuses on the act of considering limitations, adding a layer of active evaluation.

considering the restrictions in place

Emphasizes the presence and impact of specific restrictions.

bearing in mind the limitations

Highlights the need to remember or be mindful of existing limitations.

in light of the restrictions

Stresses the impact that the restrictions have on a decision or action.

considering the limiting factors

Specifically points to factors that cause limitations.

subject to the existing limitations

Highlights that something is conditional upon the existing limitations.

within the scope of the restrictions

Indicates activities or possibilities fall under certain restrictions.

acknowledging the limitations

Underscores the awareness and acceptance of limitations.

with the proviso of existing limitations

Implies something is accepted or agreed upon, provided the limitations are considered.

taking cognizance of the restrictions

Highlights a formal recognition of the restrictions.

FAQs

How can I use "given the constraints" in a sentence?

Use "given the constraints" to acknowledge limitations or restrictions when explaining a decision, situation, or outcome. For example, "Given the constraints of the budget, the project was a success".

What phrases are similar to "given the constraints"?

Similar phrases include "taking into account the limitations", "considering the restrictions in place", or "in light of the restrictions". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "given the constraints" formal or informal?

"Given the constraints" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its formality depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and sentence structure.

What's the difference between "given the constraints" and "despite the constraints"?

"Given the constraints" acknowledges limitations and explains how they were considered. "Despite the constraints", however, indicates that something was achieved even though limitations existed and posed challenges. They frame the limitations in opposite ways.