Constrained
[kənˈstreɪnd]
Definitions
2 meaningsTo compel or force somebody to do something; to restrict or limit.
[kənˈstreɪn]
To limit or restrict someone or something.
The new laws constrain the freedom of the press.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're building a LEGO castle, but you only have a few bricks. You're constrained by the limited number of bricks you have! Being constrained means being held back or limited in some way.
👶 For kids: To stop someone from doing something.
More Examples
I was constrained by time and couldn't finish the project.
The budget constraints limited our ability to hire more staff.
How It's Used
"Companies are often constrained by budget limitations."
"The therapist encouraged the patient to not constrain their feelings."
Appearing forced or unnatural; not spontaneous or relaxed.
[kənˈstreɪnd]
Appearing forced or unnatural.
Her constrained laughter revealed her discomfort.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to act happy when you're feeling sad. Your smile might seem a little constrained, meaning it doesn't seem natural or genuine. It feels like you're being held back.
👶 For kids: When something is not natural or easy to do.
More Examples
The actor's performance felt constrained and unnatural.
He gave a constrained speech, carefully choosing his words.
How It's Used
"His constrained smile betrayed his true feelings."
"She felt constrained by the formal dress code at the event."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
constrained optimization
A mathematical process of maximizing or minimizing a function subject to certain restrictions or limitations.
"The company used constrained optimization to allocate resources efficiently."
From Middle English constreinen, from Old French constreindre, from Latin constringere (“to bind together, compress”), from con- (“together”) + stringere (“to draw tight”).
Historically, 'constrained' has been used to describe both physical and emotional restrictions, and its meaning has remained relatively consistent over time.
Memory tip
Imagine a rope (constrain) around a person, limiting their movement.
Word Origin
"to bind together, compress"