constricted
/kənˈstrɪkt/ (bre, ipa) · [kənstrˈɪktəd] /kənˈstrɪkt/ (ame, ipa) · [kənstrˈɪktəd] /kən-ˈstrikt/ (ame, mw) · /kənˈstrɪktɪd/ (bre, ipa) · [kənstrˈɪktəd] /kənˈstrɪktɪd/ (ame, ipa)
constricted — verb
- constrictedpresent simple I / you / we / they
- constricteds3rd person singular
- constricteding-ing form
- constrictededpast simple
1. When a tube-shaped body part, pipe, or opening becomes narrower, or when somethi
When a tube-shaped body part, pipe, or opening becomes narrower, or when something makes it narrower, so that the space inside gets smaller and flow through it is reduced.
The cold water caused the blood vessels in Jabari's fingers to constrict.
causative: cold water + constrict + blood vessels
As the snake wrapped around its prey, its muscles began to constrict tightly.
intransitive use with adverb 'tightly'
Doctors warned that smoking constricts the airways and makes breathing harder.
The rubber hose was constricted where the car tyre had rolled over it.
Pupils constrict automatically when bright light enters the eye.
文法句型
constrict + noun phrase (transitive)
constrict (intransitive, no object)
用法筆記
Common in medical and biological contexts. Frequently used in the passive form (be constricted) or as an intransitive verb describing an automatic bodily response.
常見錯誤
2. To limit someone's freedom, choices, or natural behaviour by applying strict rul
To limit someone's freedom, choices, or natural behaviour by applying strict rules, pressure, or conditions that make normal action difficult.
Eliska felt that the strict dress code constricted her personal style at work.
transitive: constrict + personal style
The small budget constricted what the school could offer in after-class activities.
abstract subject: budget constricted options
New visa rules have constricted the flow of scientists attending international conferences.
Cole's creativity was constricted by the manager's demand for boring, safe designs.
The protesters argued that the new law constricts the right to peaceful assembly.
文法句型
constrict + noun phrase (freedom, choices, movement)
be constricted by + noun phrase
用法筆記
Subject is typically a rule, law, budget, situation, or system — not a person directly. For direct interpersonal restriction, 'limit' or 'restrict' is more natural.
常見錯誤
constricted — adjective
- constrictedpositive
- more constrictedcomparative
- most constrictedsuperlative
1. Feeling uncomfortably tight or squeezed because the space or passage is narrower
Feeling uncomfortably tight or squeezed because the space or passage is narrower than normal, making movement or flow difficult.
Reema's throat felt dry and constricted after the long run in cold air.
body part + constricted: throat
The tunnel was so constricted that two people could not walk side by side.
constricted + space: tunnel
Hiro breathed through a constricted straw, gasping for enough air.
The doctor said Camila's blood vessels were abnormally constricted, which raised her blood pressure.
A constricted pipe caused the water pressure in the kitchen to drop sharply.
用法筆記
Often describes body parts (throat, chest, blood vessels) or physical spaces (tunnel, corridor, pipe). Can describe a temporary or ongoing condition.
2. Severely limited in range, size, or amount, so that there is not enough variety,
Severely limited in range, size, or amount, so that there is not enough variety, room, or freedom to meet normal needs.
The family lived on a constricted income that barely covered rent and food.
constricted income — limited money
Asher looked for work in a constricted job market with very few openings.
constricted job market — few opportunities
Students complained that the curriculum was too constricted and left no room for creative subjects.
Yuna felt her social circle constricted after she moved to a small town.
A constricted world view can make it hard to understand people from different cultures.
- limited
simpler and more common; neutral in tone
- restricted
similar meaning; more official or rule-based
- narrow
works for range or perspective but less formal
用法筆記
Used with abstract nouns: income, market, view, options, perspective. Often describes a situation that feels unfairly limiting rather than naturally small.