constraining

/kənˈstreɪn/ (bre, ipa) · [kənstrˈenɪŋ] /kənˈstreɪn/ (ame, ipa)

constraining — verb

  • constrainingpresent simple I / you / we / they
  • constrainings3rd person singular
  • constraininging-ing form
  • constrainingedpast simple

1. limiting someone's actions, movement, growth, or choices so that they cannot hap

1.動詞及物B2
釋義

limiting someone's actions, movement, growth, or choices so that they cannot happen as freely as they otherwise would

例句

Tight visa rules were constraining Salma's plans to study abroad.

be constraining + plans/options

The narrow kitchen was constraining how Rachel could move during dinner.

be constraining + how-clause

同義詞
  • limit

    more general and everyday; it states the boundary without sounding as formal

  • restrict

    often stresses rules or official control more clearly than constraining does

  • hold back

    more conversational and often used for slowing progress or emotion

反義詞
  • free up

    to remove limits so people or things can move or develop more easily

  • enable

    to make something possible instead of preventing it

文法句型

be constraining + noun phrase

be constraining + how + clause

keep constraining + noun phrase

用法筆記

Often appears after 'be' or 'keep' when a rule, injury, lack of money, or limited space is acting as the thing that reduces freedom or progress. It is more formal than everyday 'holding back' and often names the affected person, plan, or movement directly.

常見錯誤

❌The small room was constraining for the children to play.
✅The small room was constraining the children's play.' or 'The small room was limiting how the children could play.
💡constraining usually names the person, action, or activity being limited.