Constraints
/kənˈstreɪnts/
Definitions
2 meaningsA limitation or restriction on a person or behavior, or on the amount of something that is possible.
/kənˈstreɪnt/
A limitation or restriction.
The new software has some constraints on file size.
💡 Simply: Think of it like your homework rules. The time you have to finish is a constraint. The subject of the assignment is another constraint. It's something that limits what you can do.
👶 For kids: A constraint is like a rule or a limit. Like, you can't eat ice cream before dinner, that's a constraint!
More Examples
Time constraints meant we had to finish the project quickly.
There are financial constraints that affect how much the company can invest.
How It's Used
"The project was completed within the budget constraints."
"Legal constraints prevented the release of certain information."
"The model was developed under specific environmental constraints."
The state of being checked, restricted, or compelled to avoid or perform some action.
/kənˈstreɪnt/
The state of being forced to do something or being kept from doing something.
The constraints of her upbringing influenced her choices.
💡 Simply: Sometimes you feel a constraint, like peer pressure might make you feel like you have to act a certain way. It's like you're limited by something outside yourself, like a rule or what someone thinks of you.
👶 For kids: It's like when you really want to play, but you have to do your homework. The homework is a constraint!
More Examples
He struggled to break free from the constraints of tradition.
The project suffered from the constraints placed upon the team.
How It's Used
"He felt a strong constraint to follow his parents' expectations."
"Cultural constraints shaped the behavior of the society."
Idioms & expressions
within constraints
Operating under specified limitations or conditions.
"The team completed the project within the constraints of time and budget."
From Middle French *constrainte*, from Latin *constringere* 'to bind tightly, constrain,' from *con-* 'together' + *stringere* 'to draw tight.'
The word 'constraint' has been used since the 14th century, initially referring to physical restrictions before expanding to conceptual limitations.
Memory tip
Think of a physical constraint like handcuffs, which limit your movement.