Recorded in English from the late 1300s, from Old French constreinte, meaning a bond, restriction, or obligation. It is related to Latin constringere, “to bind tightly.”
Limit on what is possible
noun
planning
neutral
Something that limits what can be done or keeps an activity within fixed conditions.
Examples
- Budget constraints forced us to reduce the scope.
- Is time the main constraint on the project?
- The design works within strict safety constraints.
- Water scarcity places a serious constraint on farming.
- We found a solution despite the technical constraints.
Similar words
restriction
limitation
restraint
curb
hindrance
boundary
Forced or unnatural restraint
noun
social
formal
Formal control, pressure, or self-consciousness that makes behavior feel forced rather than natural.
Examples
- She spoke with obvious constraint in front of the officials.
- The interview felt stiff and full of constraint.
- He signed the statement under constraint.
- Without social constraint, their conversation became warmer.
- Her smile showed the constraint she was trying to hide.
Similar words
restraint
inhibition
awkwardness
self-consciousness
coercion