restrict
12 synonyms and 1 antonym for restrict, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To keep something within limits; to hold it back from going further.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
derestrict
How to use restrict
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
restrict access
restrict movement
heavily restricted
Etymology
From Latin restrictus, "drawn back tightly," from re- ("back") + stringere ("to pull tight") — the same root behind "stringent."
Full origin of restrict →Frequently asked questions
What does “restrict” mean?
The word “restrict” means to keep something within limits; to hold it back from going further. In plain terms, to limit or confine something to a smaller range than it would otherwise have.
How do you pronounce “restrict”?
“Restrict” is pronounced rih-STRIHKT (/ɹɪˈstɹɪkt/ in IPA).
How do you use “restrict” in a sentence?
Here is “restrict” used in a sentence: “The new rules restrict how much data the app can collect.”
What part of speech is “restrict”?
“Restrict” is a verb.
Where does the word “restrict” come from?
The word “restrict” comes from Latin. From Latin restrictus, "drawn back tightly," from re- ("back") + stringere ("to pull tight") — the same root behind "stringent.".
Is “restrict” a common word?
“Restrict” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between restrict and limit?
Restrict and limit are close synonyms, both meaning to keep something within bounds, but "restrict" more often implies an active rule or barrier holding something back, while "limit" can simply describe a maximum point or boundary. For example, a law can restrict access, while a limit can be a number, such as a speed limit.
What preposition follows restrict?
Restrict is typically followed by "to" when specifying what something is confined to, as in "restrict access to members," or by "from" when specifying what is being prevented, as in "restrict visitors from entering." Both patterns are standard in everyday and formal English.
Is restrict a formal word?
Restrict is a fairly neutral, everyday word used in both formal writing, such as legal and policy documents, and ordinary speech. It is not slang or especially casual, but it does carry a slightly more official tone than simpler alternatives like "limit" or "hold back."
