restraint against

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "restraint against" is not commonly used in written English and may not convey the intended meaning clearly.
It can be used in contexts discussing limitations or prohibitions, but it is more effective to use "restraint from" or "restraint on" depending on the context. Example: "The organization imposed a restraint against any form of discrimination in the workplace."

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

No American government since has dared to threaten prior restraint against any news organisation.

The Guardian - Opinion

He said officers had acted with restraint against "criminal acts by a tiny minority of lawbreakers".

The Guardian

Ensconced in anonymity, few of the bounds of restraint against unalloyed hatred seem to apply.

The Guardian - Opinion

Coetzee seems compelled to test his celebrated restraint against subjects and ideas whose extremity challenges novelistic representation.

The New Yorker

Michael Anderson, a lawyer for the union, said the injunction was an unconstitutional prior restraint against free speech.

The New York Times

It provoked calls for India to drop its policy of so-called strategic restraint against its neighbour.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

She also cited constitutional restraints against Germany bailing out other countries, concerns that France took as something of a pretext.

The New York Times

There's also a section on common aircraft cabin items and how they can be used as weapons, shields or restraints against attackers.

The New York Times

Limitations on speech require even greater care; a near prohibition on "prior restraints" against publication has become a cornerstone of first amendment doctrine.

The Guardian - Opinion

At the end we are invited to sign postcards protesting at the increased use of physical restraints against mental health patients.

The Guardian

In addition to the classical boundary conditions, elastic restraints against translation and rotation are also considered.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using alternatives like "restraint on" or "restraint from" for potentially clearer communication. For instance, instead of "restraint against protesters", use "restraint on protesters".

Common error

Avoid using "restraint against" when "restraint from" or "restraint on" more accurately reflects the intended meaning. "Restraint from" suggests refraining from an action, while "restraint on" suggests a limit placed upon something.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "restraint against" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase. It typically modifies a noun or verb, indicating a limitation or holding back in opposition to something. As Ludwig examples show, it is sometimes used in the context of actions or behaviors.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "restraint against" is an acceptable but uncommon prepositional phrase used to express limitation or opposition. While grammatically sound, alternative phrasings such as "restraint on" or "restraint from" often provide greater clarity. Ludwig's analysis, along with real-world examples, suggests that its usage appears mainly in news and scientific contexts. Consider using alternatives for more precise and common communication. As Ludwig AI highlights, this specific construction should be used carefully and with consideration of better alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limitation on

Focuses on the act of limiting something, differing from restraint which implies holding back.

restrictions on

Highlights specific rules or conditions that limit something.

control over

Emphasizes the power to direct or influence something, instead of holding it back.

curb on

Implies a check or restraint on something, often sudden or forceful.

check on

Suggests a monitoring or controlling influence.

deterrent to

Focuses on preventing an action through fear or doubt.

safeguard against

Highlights measures taken to protect against potential harm.

impediment to

Emphasizes the hindering or obstruction of something.

barrier to

Indicates an obstacle preventing progress or access.

opposition to

Highlights resistance or disapproval of something.

FAQs

What does "restraint against" mean?

"Restraint against" implies holding back or limiting something, often an action or impulse. It suggests a force or influence that prevents something from happening or being expressed fully.

Is "restraint against" grammatically correct?

While understandable, "restraint against" isn't as common as alternatives like "restraint on" or "restraint from". The choice depends on the specific context.

When should I use "restraint against" versus "restraint on"?

Use "restraint on" to indicate a limit or control placed upon something. "Restraint against" is less common and might be better replaced with more direct phrasing.

What are some alternatives to "restraint against" in a sentence?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "limitation on", "control over", or "restrictions on". Consider the specific nuance you want to convey.