utter restraint

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utter restraint" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a complete or total self-control in various contexts, such as emotional or behavioral situations. Example: "In the face of provocation, she showed utter restraint, refusing to react to the insults."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

We should also remember that the overwhelming majority of the military personnel deployed over 38 years in Northern Ireland conducted themselves with utter professionalism, restraint and humanity.

The Guardian

Richards added that the "overwhelming majority" of the military personnel deployed over 38 years in Northern Ireland conducted themselves "with utter professionalism, restraint and humanity.

The Guardian

But he went on to add that the overwhelming majority of soldiers deployed to Northern Ireland "conducted themselves with utter professionalism, restraint and humanity".

BBC

Again, Democrats can utter the words of fiscal restraint, but they don't feel the passion.

The New York Times

The tone of the film, like that of McCarthy's original novel, is apocalyptic: it gestures ahead, darkly, to an utter annihilation of norms and restraints.

The Guardian - Film

It violates constitutional prohibitions against prior restraint by censoring speech that has yet to be uttered based solely on the criminal histories of those planning to utter it.

The Washington Post

"Captain America: utter, utter, utter tosh".

Independent

Utter garbage!

The New Yorker

Utter madness.

The New York Times

Utter frustration.

Independent

Utter nonsense!

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "utter restraint" to describe situations where a complete lack of reaction or expression is notable, especially in emotionally charged contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "utter restraint" in contexts that don't require significant self-control or where a moderate response would be more appropriate. The phrase implies a high degree of suppressed emotion or action, which might be excessive for everyday situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utter restraint" functions as a noun phrase where "utter" serves as an adjective intensifying the noun "restraint." This intensifier highlights the completeness or extremity of the restraint being described. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase as usable in English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Utter restraint" is a noun phrase emphasizing a complete and noticeable suppression of emotions or actions. Ludwig AI marks it as correct and usable in English. While its usage spans various contexts like News & Media and Academia, it is advisable to use it when highlighting exceptional self-control. Alternatives such as "complete self-control" or "absolute composure" may be considered depending on the desired nuance. Overusing the phrase in commonplace scenarios should be avoided to maintain its descriptive impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Complete self-control

Emphasizes the element of self-imposed regulation and mastery over one's actions or emotions.

Absolute composure

Highlights the aspect of maintaining a calm and collected demeanor, even under pressure.

Total abstinence

Focuses on refraining completely from something, such as a behavior or substance.

Extreme self-discipline

Stresses the rigor and dedication required to maintain a high level of control.

Unwavering moderation

Highlights maintaining balance and avoiding extremes in behavior or consumption.

Perfect temperance

Implies a state of complete control over one's desires and appetites.

Rigorous limitation

Focuses on strict constraints and boundaries.

Severe restriction

Emphasizes harsh limitations and constraints.

Utmost self-command

Highlights the ability to control one's actions and reactions with precision.

Full constraint

Highlights a comprehensive limit on freedom of action or expression.

FAQs

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

You can use "utter restraint" to describe a situation where someone is showing extreme self-control or composure. For instance, "Despite the provocation, she displayed "utter restraint" and refused to respond in anger."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "utter restraint"?

Some alternatives to "utter restraint" include "complete self-control", "absolute composure", or "extreme self-discipline" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "utter restraint" formal or informal?

The phrase "utter restraint" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's more commonly found in formal writing or speech due to its descriptive and somewhat emphatic nature.

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

"Self-control" is a general term for the ability to manage one's emotions and behavior. "Utter restraint" implies a more complete and noticeable suppression of feelings or actions, suggesting a higher degree of control in a particularly challenging situation.