restrict
/rɪˈstrɪkt/to limit the freedom, movement, or use of something
Parents may restrict their children's screen time to promote healthier habits.
Parents limit their children's screen time to encourage better habits.
The company restricted access to sensitive data to protect confidential information.
The company limited access to sensitive data to safeguard confidential information.
Often used in formal or regulatory contexts, such as laws, policies, or parental controls.
to limit the scope or extent of something
The new regulations restrict the types of chemicals that can be used in manufacturing.
The new regulations limit the types of chemicals allowed in manufacturing.
Common in legal, business, or technical contexts.
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💡Pro Tip
Common Usage
Use 'restrict' when referring to intentional limitations imposed by rules, policies, or authorities.
⚡Gold Rule
Formal vs. Informal
'Restrict' is often used in formal contexts, such as laws or regulations. In everyday speech, 'limit' or 'restrain' may be more common.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English *restreynten*, from Old French *restreindre*, from Latin *restringere* ('to bind back, restrict'), from *re-* ('back') + *stringere* ('to bind').
📝Usage Notes
Can be used both literally (e.g., restricting movement) and metaphorically (e.g., restricting options). Often implies an intentional limitation by an authority.