impose constraints

USAGE SUMMARY

"impose constraints" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it when discussing the need to limit an increasing problem or situation. For example, "The government must impose constraints on the use of fossil fuels in order to reduce air pollution."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Libraries usually impose constraints on how clients should use them.

Science of Computer Programming

"Constitutions impose constraints on politics and constitutional courts enforce these constraints," he observed.

Harvard University

To regulate and adapt their functions, cells impose constraints on themselves.

Stanford University

However, they will also impose constraints, since truly ruthless competition among individuals would lead to widespread insecurity, suffering, and disorder.

The Guardian - Opinion

In practical regression problems, we often need to impose constraints on slopes.

Computational Statistics & Data Analysis

However, structural plant cell walls impose constraints to accomplish tip growth.

Molecular Plant

Our results impose constraints on kinesin walking models and suggest a role for rotational freedom in cargo transport.

Stanford University

Astronomical observations involve a sequence of stages, each of which may impose constraints on the type of information attainable.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Rules are interpreted as order-of-magnitude approximations of conditional probabilities which impose constraints over the rankings of worlds.

Artificial Intelligence

Indeed, the DOJ has adopted its own binding regulations that impose constraints on its ability to obtain the phone records of journalists.

The Guardian - Opinion

Over the course of several decisions, the UK's courts have applied that act to impose constraints upon the use of control orders.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "impose constraints", ensure the subject imposing the constraints and the object being constrained are clearly identified to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "impose constraints" without specifying who or what is doing the imposing. For example, instead of saying "Constraints were imposed", specify who imposed them: "The regulatory body imposed constraints".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "impose constraints" functions as a verb phrase, where "impose" is the verb and "constraints" is the direct object. It describes the action of setting or enforcing limitations. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

49%

News & Media

27%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

7%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "impose constraints" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as verified by Ludwig AI. It signifies the action of setting limits or restrictions, commonly appearing in scientific, news, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, clarity is key: ensure the subject imposing the constraints and the object being constrained are explicitly stated. While alternatives like ""set limitations"" or ""place restrictions"" exist, "impose constraints" often carries a slightly stronger, more regulatory connotation. Its prevalent use across diverse sources underscores its versatility and importance in formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set limitations

Focuses on the action of establishing boundaries or limits.

place restrictions

Highlights the act of putting rules or conditions in place.

apply limitations

Emphasizes the active implementation of existing limits.

establish limits

Implies the creation of boundaries or restrictions.

institute restrictions

Suggests a more formal or official implementation of limitations.

enforce limitations

Stresses the active upholding of constraints that are already in place.

put boundaries

Emphasizes the act of defining the borders that are not allowed to be crossed.

set parameters

Involves establishing a range within which something can operate.

define boundaries

Focuses on specifying and clarifying the permissible limits.

fix limitations

Suggests the act of making limitations definite and unchangeable.

FAQs

How can I use "impose constraints" in a sentence?

You can use "impose constraints" to describe the action of setting limits or restrictions on something. For example, "The new regulations "impose constraints" on emissions".

What are some alternatives to "impose constraints"?

Alternatives to "impose constraints" include "set limitations", "place restrictions", or "apply limitations", depending on the context.

Is it better to use "impose constraints" or "dictate constraints"?

While both phrases are valid, "impose constraints" is generally preferred for its broader applicability. "Dictate constraints" implies a more authoritative or forceful imposition, which might not always be appropriate. Consider if "dictate constraints" really represent the intention.

What's the difference between "impose constraints" and "introduce constraints"?

"Impose constraints" suggests a more forceful or regulatory action of setting limits, while "introduce constraints" simply means to bring constraints into effect, without necessarily implying enforcement. The action to "impose constraints" is stronger.