it was restrained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was restrained" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation, behavior, or emotion that was controlled or limited in some way. Example: "During the meeting, his enthusiasm was evident, but it was restrained by the formal atmosphere."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

It was restrained and mature.

The New York Times

Draped snugly through the torso, as riveting as it was restrained.

The New York Times

In typical Times fashion, it was restrained in both places, with a quiet headline that read, simply, "Obama's Night".

The New York Times

Results revealed that N2O production rates (i.e. denitrification rates) were stimulated by increased total organic carbon (TOC) concentration, while it was restrained under high oxygen concentrations.

Chemosphere

The nanogels possessed an ideal release of DOX in the weak acid environment, while it was restrained in the neutral media, demonstrating the pH-responsive controlled release behavior.

Carbohydrate Polymers

Once the laissez-faire machine started running, it cheerfully annihilated the people and the natural environment that it made use of, unless it was restrained.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

If anything, it is restrained.

The Guardian - Opinion

Prague's musical heritage is no secret, but often it is restrained to concert halls and the occasional club.

The New York Times

This phenomenon owes nothing to geopolitical calculation, or to the policies of any government, either western or Middle Eastern; nor can it be restrained by government action.

The Economist

In the lawsuit filed in January, M.L.B. Properties accused Upper Deck of trademark infringement and asked that it be restrained from using teams' uniforms, helmets and cap logos.

The New York Times - Sports

A masterpiece of precision and quiet bewilderment, it is restrained, elegant and telling, what it doesn't say being as important as what it does.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a performance or artistic creation, use "it was restrained" to commend the artist's control and subtlety rather than excessive display.

Common error

Avoid using "it was restrained" when describing actions that were actively prevented or required forceful suppression. Use stronger verbs like "suppressed" or "prevented" to convey the correct meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was restrained" functions primarily as a descriptive statement. It characterizes a subject by indicating that it exhibited control, moderation, or limitation. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was restrained" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe something exhibiting control or limitation. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While not overly common, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts, indicating a neutral tone. It's a useful phrase for conveying that something was kept within certain bounds, and related alternatives include "it was controlled" or "it was subdued". Remember to use this phrase when you want to imply conscious effort to maintain balance or composure.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was controlled

Focuses on the element of control being exerted, emphasizing the action more directly.

it was subdued

Highlights a reduction in intensity or force, suggesting a calming or muting effect.

it was tempered

Implies a moderation or balancing effect, often used in the context of emotions or reactions.

it was curtailed

Indicates a reduction or limitation imposed on something, often suddenly or unexpectedly.

it was checked

Suggests an action that halted or slowed progress, implying oversight or monitoring.

it was suppressed

Conveys a more forceful holding back or preventing something from being expressed or developed.

it was muted

Emphasizes a quietening or softening, often in the context of sounds or colors.

it was moderate

Suggests something kept within reasonable limits, avoiding extremes.

it was kept in check

Highlights maintaining control and preventing undesirable developments.

it was held back

Focuses on the act of preventing something from moving forward or being revealed.

FAQs

How can I use "it was restrained" in a sentence?

You can use "it was restrained" to describe something that showed control or moderation, such as "The celebration was joyous, but "it was restrained" out of respect for those who had suffered losses".

What's a good alternative to "it was restrained"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "it was subdued", "it was controlled", or "it was tempered".

Is it correct to say "it was restrained"?

Yes, "it was restrained" is a grammatically correct phrase. It's used to describe a situation, behavior, or emotion that was kept under control or limited.

What does "it was restrained" imply about the subject?

It implies that the subject, whether an action, emotion, or expression, was kept within limits, not allowed to be excessive or uncontrolled. It often suggests a deliberate act of control or moderation.