restrictive language

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "restrictive language" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe language that limits or constrains the meaning or interpretation of a statement or text. Example: "The use of restrictive language in the policy document made it difficult for employees to understand their rights."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Never mind the restrictive language on abortion.

The New York Times

Congress chose more restrictive language, provoking litigation.

The New York Times

The restrictive language allows people to buy "riders" that would cover abortions.

The New York Times

That said, putting restrictive language in the budget is not the best way to fix the problem.

The New York Times

He is "trying to find the cracks within the language", and chisel out an alternative to the "compressed, restrictive" language of the media.

The Guardian

White House lawyers have found many court decisions holding, as the Supreme Court said in 2005, that "restrictive language contained in committee reports is not legally binding".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

The magazine avoids sectarian positions and the restrictive languages that accompany them, like other publications with similar content.

Huffington Post

And the bill offers the Senate's less-restrictive language on abortion; it does not include the "Stupak amendment," which would bar insurers from offering abortion coverage to anyone buying a policy with a federal subsidy.

The New York Times

When adults are proportionally fewer in relation to the number of children, caregivers tend to interact less with the children and to use more authoritarian and restrictive speech that does not stimulate language development and learning [19], [32].

Plosone

And in a lecture on the project Terence Riley, the museum's chief curator of architecture and design, said he hoped that the winning architect would understand the potential for "near-infinite expressiveness" within the "restrictive formal language" of midtown Manhattan.

The New Yorker

Bitcoin is programmable money … with a highly restrictive programming language.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity and inclusivity, evaluate instances of "restrictive language" for potential bias or unintended consequences. Consider more neutral or expansive phrasing to broaden understanding and acceptance.

Common error

Avoid using "restrictive language" excessively in everyday communication, as it can create a sense of distance or formality. Opt for simpler and more accessible wording to foster better engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "restrictive language" functions primarily as a descriptive term. It modifies a noun, typically referring to laws, policies, contracts, or any form of communication where the wording imposes limitations or constraints. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

38%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "restrictive language" is a commonly used phrase that describes wording that imposes limitations or constraints. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news, scientific, and legal contexts. When writing, it's essential to be mindful of the potential implications and unintended consequences and consider alternative phrasing for clarity and inclusiveness. Be sure to check and consider the differences with alternatives phrases like "limiting language" or "constraining language", which are often interchangeable. Always use simpler terms for better audience engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limiting language

Focuses on the act of limiting, emphasizing the effect on the scope or application of the language.

constraining language

Highlights the way language imposes restrictions or boundaries.

narrow language

Emphasizes the limited scope or breadth of the language used.

stringent wording

Focuses on the strictness and precision of the language.

rigid phrasing

Implies a lack of flexibility in the language used.

prescriptive vocabulary

Suggests a set of rules that dictate how language should be used, limiting choices.

exclusive terminology

Indicates language that is limited to a specific group or context.

binding terminology

Emphasizes how language creates strong commitment, like in legal document.

specified language

Suggests a set of rules that explain how language should be used, limiting options.

circumscribed lexicon

Emphasizes that the vocabulary or lexicon is limited in scope or range.

FAQs

How can I use "restrictive language" in a sentence?

You can use "restrictive language" to describe the limitations or constraints imposed by specific wording. For example, "The contract contained "restrictive language" regarding intellectual property rights."

What's the difference between "restrictive language" and "limiting language"?

While both phrases indicate constraints on expression, "restrictive language" emphasizes the act of restricting, whereas "limiting language" focuses on the effect of setting boundaries or confines. The terms are often interchangeable but can carry subtle differences in emphasis.

What are some alternatives to "restrictive language"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "constraining language", "narrow language", or "stringent wording" to convey a similar meaning.

In what contexts is "restrictive language" commonly used?

"Restrictive language" is often encountered in legal documents, policy statements, and other formal contexts where precise wording is crucial to define the scope and limitations of specific provisions or agreements.