The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

constraint

IPA:

Dictionary definition of constraint

A limitation or restriction that is placed on a person, thing, or situation.
"The time constraint forced them to work quickly."

Detailed meaning of constraint

It can be a physical, social, or psychological limitation that inhibits or prevents someone or something from performing or behaving in a particular way. Constraints can be external, such as laws, regulations, or rules, or they can be internal, such as personal beliefs or limitations. In some cases, constraints can be helpful in promoting discipline or creativity, while in others, they can be harmful and stifling. Overall, constraints can play a crucial role in shaping individual and societal behavior and can have both positive and negative effects depending on the context and the nature of the constraint.

Example sentences containing constraint

1. The budgetary constraint limited their project's scope.
2. Time constraint forced them to expedite the process.
3. Personal constraints hindered her creative expression.
4. He faced the constraint of a tight deadline.
5. The legal constraint prevented further action.
6. Financial constraints impacted their travel plans.

History and etymology of constraint

The noun 'constraint' finds its etymological roots in the Latin word 'constringere,' which consists of 'con-' meaning 'together' and 'stringere' meaning 'to bind' or 'to draw tight.' This combination of elements gives 'constraint' its fundamental meaning of a limitation or restriction that tightly binds or holds something together. Over time, the term evolved in English to refer to any limitation or restriction imposed on a person, thing, or situation. The etymology of 'constraint' highlights its inherent connection to the idea of something being bound or restricted, encapsulating the notion of confinement or limitation within its linguistic origins.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the noun constraint:

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Further usage examples of constraint

1. Overcoming constraints fueled their innovation.
2. Her disability was a constant constraint.
3. Environmental constraints shaped their design choices.
4. The constraint of distance strained their relationship.
5. They worked diligently within their resource constraints.
6. The constraint of secrecy added to the intrigue.
7. Social constraints influenced their career decisions.
8. Economic constraints led to frugal living.
9. Creativity thrives within certain constraints.
10. The project faced budgetary and time constraints.
11. The constraint of tradition clashed with modernity.
12. They navigated the constraints of a long-distance relationship.
13. He struggled to break free from societal constraints.
14. Adhering to safety constraints was paramount.
15. The budget was a constraint on the project's scope.
16. The design was limited by the physical constraints of the space.
17. The contract included several constraints that both parties had to follow.
18. The artist worked within the constraint of a small canvas.
19. The company had to adjust their plans due to the constraint of the pandemic.
20. The teacher placed constraints on the project to encourage creativity.
21. The athlete pushed beyond the constraints of their physical ability.
22. The policy was created to address the ethical constraints of the situation.
23. The writer struggled to meet the constraints of the word count.
24. The engineer had to find a solution that worked within the constraints of the available materials.
25. The performer used the constraint of a single prop to create a captivating act.