restrictive setting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "restrictive setting" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an environment or context that limits freedom or flexibility, often in relation to education, healthcare, or social services. Example: "The child thrived in a supportive environment but struggled in a restrictive setting that stifled creativity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

The state mental health commissioner's "goal" to discharge psychiatric patients to "less restrictive" settings falls far short of statutes and case law requiring patients to be released to the "least restrictive" setting.

The New York Times

Under longstanding legal principle in New York and elsewhere, the mentally ill cannot be confined unless they are considered a threat to themselves or others, and should be housed in the least restrictive setting appropriate for their needs.

The New York Times

According to Flores, those kids who must be detained should be so "in the least restrictive setting appropriate for their ages and special needs", and the kids should be provided "suitable living conditions, suitable food, appropriate medical, dental, and mental health care, and adequate educational services and discipline which does not have adverse psychological consequences".

The Guardian - Opinion

Courts have repeatedly placed restrictions on the detention of asylum-seeking families and children and said kids need to be placed in the "least restrictive" setting appropriate for their age and needs.

Vice

Internet filters at the least restrictive setting block about as much pornography as filters at more restrictive settings, but the number of blocked health sites jump, researchers said: half the Web sites devoted to safe sex and similar topics are stopped at the most restrictive settings, which are used at many schools and libraries.

The New York Times

Unnecessarily shuttling people into the most restrictive setting grossly violates this standard.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

"We think it's important that people don't feel confined to restrictive, set ways of working," Jones offers.

The Guardian

It is not necessary to know to find : any function that combines two vectors into a scalar and fulfills the (not very restrictive) set of conditions spelled out in Mercer's theorem [31] can be used as a kernel.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

"Nature only uses a restrictive set of molecules and chemical reactions out of many thousands available.

The New York Times - Science

Instead, the military insisted that they sign a new, significantly more restrictive set of rules.

The New York Times

Since the relatively strict Chief Executive James Ferman left in 1999, successors Robin Duval and David Cooke have overseen a less restrictive set of policies.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "restrictive setting" to accurately describe situations where rules, regulations, or physical limitations significantly impact freedom or behavior. Be specific about the nature of the restrictions.

Common error

While "restrictive setting" is a valid term, it often carries a negative connotation. Avoid using it in situations where the limitations are intended to be beneficial or empowering. Instead, consider terms like "structured environment" or "controlled space" if the restrictions are part of a positive strategy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "restrictive setting" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "restrictive" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "setting". Ludwig AI confirms its usability in describing environments that limit freedom or flexibility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "restrictive setting" is a commonly used and grammatically correct term that describes environments characterized by limitations on freedom or flexibility. Ludwig AI's analysis reveals its prevalence across diverse domains such as news, science, and law, where it's crucial to specify conditions impacting individuals, especially vulnerable groups. While versatile, it carries a somewhat negative connotation, so consider alternative terms like "controlled environment" or "structured environment" for scenarios where limitations serve a beneficial purpose. Always strive for precision and sensitivity when discussing "restrictive settings" to ensure clarity and respect in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limited environment

Focuses on the constraints and boundaries of the setting.

restrained setting

Focuses on the lack of freedom or spontaneity.

controlled environment

Emphasizes the aspect of being managed or regulated.

strict environment

Emphasizes the rigidity and enforcement of rules.

regulated atmosphere

Stresses the presence of rules and regulations.

structured environment

Highlights the organization and order of the setting.

circumscribed environment

Indicates a setting with defined boundaries and limits.

confined space

Highlights the physical limitations of the environment.

inhibiting atmosphere

Emphasizes the prevention or suppression of certain behaviors.

limited scope

Focuses on the narrow range of opportunities or activities available.

FAQs

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

You can use "restrictive setting" to describe an environment that limits freedom or flexibility. For example, "The child thrived in a supportive environment but struggled in a "restrictive setting" that stifled creativity."

What are some alternatives to "restrictive setting"?

Alternatives include "controlled environment", "confined space", or "limited environment", depending on the specific context.

What is the difference between "restrictive setting" and "structured environment"?

"Restrictive setting" generally implies limitations that hinder growth or freedom, while "structured environment" suggests a beneficial organization with clear guidelines.

In what contexts is the phrase "restrictive setting" most commonly used?

The phrase "restrictive setting" is frequently used in contexts related to education, healthcare, and legal or social services, particularly when discussing the rights and needs of vulnerable individuals. The phrase is commonly found in "news media".