restrict
rih-STRIHKT
Restrict (verb) means to keep something within limits; to hold it back from going further. Example: “The new rules restrict how much data the app can collect.”
verb
1
To keep something within limits; to hold it back from going further.
"The new rules restrict how much data the app can collect."
"Doctors restricted his diet to low-sodium foods."
"Heavy snow can restrict traffic to a single lane on the hills."
How to use restrict
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo limit or confine something to a smaller range than it would otherwise have.
Common pairings
restrict access
restrict movement
heavily restricted
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- restricts
- Past tense
- restricted
- Comparative
- more restrict
- Superlative
- most restrict
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The new rules _____ how much data the app can collect.
Etymology
From Latin restrictus, "drawn back tightly," from re- ("back") + stringere ("to pull tight") — the same root behind "stringent."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
derestrict
Related words
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."
