controlled
Controlled (adjective) means kept in check; restrained rather than let loose. Example: “She spoke in a calm, controlled voice despite her anger.”
How to Use Controlled
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishKept under restraint, or officially regulated.
Word Forms
more controlled comparative, most controlled superlative
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
She spoke in a calm, _____ voice despite her anger.
Related Words
Rhymes for controlled
See all rhymes for controlled →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “controlled” mean?
The word “controlled” means kept in check; restrained rather than let loose. In plain terms, kept under restraint, or officially regulated.
How do you pronounce “controlled”?
“Controlled” is pronounced kuhn-TROHLD (/kənˈtɹoʊld/ in IPA).
How do you use “controlled” in a sentence?
Here is “controlled” used in a sentence: “She spoke in a calm, controlled voice despite her anger.”
What part of speech is “controlled”?
“Controlled” is an adjective.
Is “controlled” a common word?
“Controlled” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “controlled” have?
“Controlled” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: kept in check; restrained rather than let loose.
What is the difference between controlled and restrained?
The two overlap closely. 'Restrained' stresses holding something back from its full force, like restrained anger. 'Controlled' stresses keeping something in check through steady management, like a controlled tone of voice. Something restrained is prevented from escaping; something controlled is guided and kept within deliberate limits.
What is the opposite of controlled?
Common opposites include 'uncontrolled,' 'unrestrained,' and 'wild.' Where controlled describes something kept in check and managed, these words describe something let loose, free, or out of hand. 'Chaotic' and 'reckless' also work when the loss of control leads to disorder or danger.
Is being controlled a good or bad thing?
It depends on the context. Self-control, being calm and composed, is seen as a strength, so 'controlled' is positive there. But when a person is controlled by someone else, the word turns negative, suggesting a loss of freedom. Tone and situation decide whether it praises or criticises.
What is an example of controlled?
A controlled experiment keeps every factor fixed except the one being tested. A controlled explosion is set off deliberately and safely by experts. A person showing controlled emotion stays calm under pressure rather than reacting wildly. In each case, something is deliberately kept in check.