lack of restraint

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lack of restraint" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to a situation where someone is unable to control their emotions, impulses, or actions. Example: The CEO's lack of restraint in spending led to the downfall of the company. In this sentence, "lack of restraint" means that the CEO was unable to control their spending habits, ultimately causing harm to the company. Another example: The children's lack of restraint during the school assembly caused chaos and disruption. Here, "lack of restraint" refers to the children's inability to control their behavior, resulting in a chaotic and disruptive situation during the school assembly.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Sports

Music

Opinion

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"You showed a singular lack of restraint.

Independent

This lack of restraint, although sometimes offensive, can also be admirable.

The Guardian - Books

Despite the president's lack of restraint, the Fed is doing just fine.

The Washington Post

Here was a case where lack of restraint delivered fine results.

The New York Times

Part of it was the raw, eye-straining Technicolor, applied with a complete lack of restraint.

The New Yorker

Then there is the lack of restraint that comes from knowing you aren't paying for film.

The New York Times - Travel

It's quite marvellous stuff really, the lack of restraint Arena exhibits on Eleven.

The Guardian - Music

It is this lack of restraint in writing which is the chief fault of The Mistressclass.

The Guardian - Books

On offense, a new lack of restraint was just as obvious.

The New York Times - Sports

Playing the villain is "delicious", she says – and she celebrates her character's lack of restraint.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Lack of restraint/self-control: F, G, M, and Q3.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In creative writing, "lack of restraint" can effectively portray characters driven by passion or impulsiveness.

Common error

Avoid using "lack of restraint" when simple impulsiveness is meant. "Lack of restraint" implies a more profound inability to control oneself, not just a momentary lapse in judgment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of restraint" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig's examples showcase its usage in describing a deficiency in self-control or moderation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Books

12%

Opinion

6%

Less common in

Sports

4%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lack of restraint" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes an absence of self-control or moderation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in various contexts, including news, literature, and academic discourse. Analysis of usage patterns reveals its prominence in News & Media, Books, and Opinion pieces. When using "lack of restraint", be mindful of its nuanced implications and consider alternative phrases like "absence of control" or "uncontrolled behavior" for specific contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absence of control

This alternative focuses on the missing element of control in a given situation.

uncontrolled behavior

This phrase highlights the behavioral aspect resulting from a lack of restraint.

absence of inhibition

This alternative emphasizes the lack of inner constraints or inhibitions.

unbridled enthusiasm

This phrase suggests a positive spin, where restraint is absent in favor of enthusiasm.

excessive indulgence

This alternative refers to overdoing something without limitation.

wanton disregard

This phrase describes reckless behavior with no consideration for consequences.

absence of boundaries

This alternative emphasizes the missing limits or constraints.

unchecked impulses

This refers to urges or desires that are not regulated or controlled.

unruly conduct

This alternative highlights the disorderly or disruptive nature of the behavior.

lack of self-discipline

This phrase focuses on the absence of inner control and regulation.

FAQs

How can I use "lack of restraint" in a sentence?

Use "lack of restraint" to describe situations where someone fails to control their actions, emotions, or impulses. For example, "His "lack of restraint" led to reckless decisions".

What's the difference between ""lack of restraint"" and "impulsiveness"?

"Lack of restraint" suggests a broader inability to control oneself, while "impulsiveness" refers to acting without thinking.

Which is correct, ""lack of restraint"" or "lack of restrain"?

"Lack of restraint" is the correct phrase. "Restraint" is a noun referring to the act of controlling oneself.

What can I say instead of ""lack of restraint""?

You can use alternatives like "absence of control", "uncontrolled behavior", or "absence of inhibition depending on the context.