Restrictive
/rɪˈstrɪktɪv/
Definitions
Serving to restrict; imposing restrictions.
/rɪˈstrɪktɪv/
Imposing limitations or constraints.
The company imposed restrictive measures on employees' use of social media.
💡 Simply: Think of it like a rule that limits what you can do or have. Like, if your parents have a restrictive rule about video games, it means you can only play for a certain amount of time.
👶 For kids: Making it so you can't do or have something.
More Examples
The new law is seen as restrictive and unpopular.
The school's restrictive dress code prohibited students from wearing shorts.
How It's Used
"The restrictive covenants on the property limited how the land could be used."
"The government implemented restrictive trade policies to protect domestic industries."
"The doctor advised a restrictive diet to manage her blood sugar levels."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
restrictive practices
Practices that limit or hinder certain activities or access to opportunities.
"The company's restrictive practices created obstacles for employees."
From Latin *restrictus*, past participle of *restringere* 'to restrain', from *re-* 'back' + *stringere* 'to draw tight'.
The word 'restrictive' and its related forms have been used since the 17th century, primarily in legal and philosophical contexts.
Memory tip
Think of a *restrictive* fence, keeping things in or out.
Word Origin
"to draw tight, restrain"