we are constrained

USAGE SUMMARY

"we are constrained" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone or something that is limited or restricted in some way. For example: "Although we would like to offer everyone a free trial, unfortunately we are constrained by limited resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We are constrained to reverse this conviction.

Cornell University

The reality of the licence fee settlement means that we are constrained financially".

The Guardian

In the prison service we are constrained by the walls around the prison.

The Guardian

We are constrained in assessing Ms. Haspel because much about her record is not public.

The New York Times

As a result, we are constrained to reaffirm the doctrine there applied.

Cornell University

We are constrained to hold that the answer must be in the affirmative.

Cornell University

We are constrained by the number of students we can enroll — and in particular foreign students.

University of California, Berkeley

"We are constrained slightly because of the EPG positioning on Freeview," said Rob Woodward, the chief executive of STV.

The Guardian

"Obviously as individuals we have choices, but this is a biological world and we are constrained in many ways.

The Guardian

"I don't share the concern that we are constrained by this agreement," said Michael O'Hanlon, a senior fellow in military strategy at the Brookings Institution.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

There are no "nomic" exceptions in evolutionary theory for humans we are constrained by the same natural laws that operate on other species.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are constrained" to clearly and directly communicate limitations, whether due to resources, regulations, or other factors.

Common error

Avoid using "we are constrained" when the limitations are minor or easily overcome. Overusing the phrase can create a negative or defensive tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are constrained" functions as a declarative statement expressing limitation or restriction. It typically describes a situation where agency is limited by external factors, as exemplified by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

37%

Science

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are constrained" is a common and grammatically correct way to express limitations or restrictions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across diverse contexts like news, academia, and science. The phrase carries a neutral to formal tone, making it suitable for professional communication. To avoid overuse, consider alternative phrases like "we are limited" or "we are restricted" to convey similar meanings with subtle differences. Remember to avoid overstating constraints for better clarity and tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are restricted

Focuses on a formal or imposed limitation.

we are limited

Implies a boundary or upper threshold that cannot be exceeded.

we are bound

Suggests being obligated or compelled by a duty or agreement.

we are compelled

Emphasizes being forced or driven to a certain action.

we are obliged

Similar to 'bound', but often suggests a moral or ethical duty.

we are tied

Highlights a connection or dependency that restricts freedom.

we are hampered

Suggests that something is hindering progress or movement.

we are impeded

Similar to 'hampered', but may imply a more significant obstruction.

we are inhibited

Highlights a psychological or social barrier to action.

we are checked

Focuses on sudden stopping or restraint.

FAQs

How can I use "we are constrained" in a sentence?

You can use "we are constrained" to indicate limitations. For example, "We are constrained by our budget" or "We are constrained by the regulations".

What are some alternatives to "we are constrained"?

Alternatives include "we are limited", "we are restricted", or "we are bound", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "we are constrained" or "we are limited"?

Both phrases are correct, but "we are constrained" often implies external forces or regulations causing the limitation, while "we are limited" can refer to internal or inherent limitations. Choose the phrase that best fits the context.

What does "we are constrained" mean?

"We are constrained" means that there are factors that restrict our actions or abilities. It suggests a lack of freedom or capacity to act as desired.