utmost restraint

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utmost restraint" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the highest level of self-control or moderation in a particular situation. Example: "In the face of provocation, she exercised the utmost restraint and chose not to respond aggressively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

I urge the Egyptian authorities and security forces to act with the utmost restraint," the High Commissioner said.

The Guardian

The Security Council's statement unfairly blames the protesters when it urges "all sides to act with utmost restraint, and to refrain from reprisals, including attacks against state institutions".

The New York Times

"This response is neither acceptable nor does it befit a democracy," said Mr Kerry, urging authorities to show "utmost restraint" and protect human life.

Independent

But, Salih added, "Kirkuk is not Bosnia, and in fact the Kurdish leadership has demonstrated the utmost restraint in the way that it has handled Kirkuk.

The New Yorker

He called it "imperative" that the army "exercise the utmost restraint and discipline to avoid further harm to civilians or worsening the humanitarian situation".

The New York Times

He also issued a statement calling on Israeli troops in the West Bank to "exercise the utmost restraint and discipline and refrain from the excessive use of force".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

High courts armed with the power to challenge the government conduct themselves with utmost judicial restraint.

Huffington Post

"Far from it, the police behaved with utmost professionalism and restraint," he was quoted as saying.

The New York Times

EU foreign policy chief Javier Solana and NATO Secretary-General George Robertson issued a statement calling on both sides to make the Macedonian truce work by acting "with utmost discipline and restraint in avoiding incidents that could lead to a return to violence". Times staff writer Carol J. Williams in Berlin contributed to this report.

Los Angeles Times

The last time that happened, when Hosni Mubarak took over as president after the assassination of Anwar Sadat in 1981, the state of emergency remained in force for 30 years.In this section The battle for Egypt Hold the line One nation, behind bars A rickety rebound Pennies streaming from heaven ReprintsThe government has pleaded that it used "the utmost degree of self-restraint" this week.

The Economist

"Our military forces are here to protect the civilian population, not to damage them," said Lt. Gen. Jonathon Riley, the British deputy to General McKiernan, as he and other officers outlined tighter orders for "proportionality, requisite restraint and the utmost discrimination" in the use of firepower, particularly in airstrikes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "utmost restraint" when you want to emphasize the high degree of self-control or moderation required in a sensitive or potentially volatile situation. It is particularly useful in contexts involving diplomacy, conflict resolution, or handling delicate personal matters.

Common error

Avoid using "utmost restraint" as a justification for complete inaction when a response is necessary. While restraint implies careful control, it doesn't negate the need for appropriate action; it simply dictates that the action should be measured and thoughtful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utmost restraint" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object of a verb. It describes the degree or extent of control exercised in a given situation. Ludwig AI confirms its use in various contexts, often in situations requiring careful management of emotions or actions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Formal & Business

23%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "utmost restraint" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that signifies a high degree of self-control or moderation. As highlighted by Ludwig, it is most frequently found in news and media contexts, as well as in formal business and academic settings. It serves to advocate for or describe situations requiring careful management of actions and emotions, particularly in diplomacy and conflict resolution. The sources reviewed indicate a neutral to formal register. When using the phrase, consider whether inaction would be detrimental, as "utmost restraint" should not justify a failure to act appropriately. There are many alternatives to the phrase, such as "maximum self-control" or "extreme moderation".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Maximum self-control

Replaces "restraint" with a more active term, "self-control", adding a sense of personal agency.

Extreme moderation

Focuses on avoiding extremes, emphasizing balance and temperance.

Greatest forbearance

Highlights patience and tolerance under provocation, shifting the focus to enduring hardship.

Exceptional self-discipline

Emphasizes the conscious effort and training involved in maintaining control.

Considerable circumspection

Shifts focus to careful consideration of circumstances and potential consequences before acting.

Remarkable composure

Highlights maintaining a calm and controlled demeanor, especially in stressful situations.

Exceptional level-headedness

Emphasizes rational thinking and clear judgment in challenging circumstances.

Unusual measuredness

Stresses the deliberate and careful nature of actions and words.

Supreme self-possession

Focuses on maintaining complete control over one's thoughts, feelings, and actions.

Absolute temperance

Highlights complete abstinence or moderation in indulging desires or impulses.

FAQs

How can I use "utmost restraint" in a sentence?

You can use "utmost restraint" to describe a situation where someone exercises a high degree of self-control. For example: "The diplomat urged both sides to exercise "utmost restraint" during the negotiations."

What are some synonyms for "utmost restraint"?

Alternatives to "utmost restraint" include "maximum self-control", "extreme moderation", and "greatest forbearance", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always appropriate to advocate for "utmost restraint"?

While advocating for "utmost restraint" is often wise in tense situations, it's important to consider whether complete inaction would be detrimental. Sometimes, a measured response is necessary, even when advocating for control.

What's the difference between "utmost restraint" and "self-control"?

"Utmost restraint" emphasizes the degree or extent of control being exercised, suggesting a situation demanding exceptional moderation. "Self-control", on the other hand, is a more general term referring to the ability to control one's impulses and actions.