restrict

[ri-strikt] / rɪˈstrɪkt /

VERB

confine, limit situation or ability to participate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

curb decrease define diminish hamper impede inhibit limit narrow reduce regulate restrain shorten

STRONG

bind bound chain check circumscribe constrict contain contract cramp delimit delimitate demarcate encircle enclose inclose moderate modify qualify shrink surround temper tether tie

WEAK

bottle up come down on cool down demark hang up hem in hold back hold down keep within bounds keep within limits pin down prelimit put away put on ice send up shut in

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid allow assist develop encourage enlarge expand extend free grow help increase lengthen raise

STRONG

let go liberate loose loosen open permit release stretch unbind unfasten unloose untie

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It has taken on renewed importance in the past year as an indicator that highlights both worker demand from employers and the labor supply as curtailed immigration and retirements restrict available workers.

From Barron's • May 22, 2026

The move loosens rules meant to restrict hydroflourocarbons, a class of climate-damaging chemicals used in cooling equipment.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

The WHO added that countries outside the affected region should not close their borders or restrict travel and trade as "such measures are usually implemented out of fear and have no basis in science".

From BBC • May 17, 2026

“The market’s not working the way it should. … These major producers have really worked to restrict and limit access to any competitors to get into the market.”

From Salon • May 15, 2026

“Never again. We shall restrict ourselves to more tasteful ventures in the future. Legal, I can’t promise.”

From "Artemis Fowl" by Eoin Colfer

Vocabulary lists containing restrict

Tier 2 Words for the SBAC ELA Items

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List 9

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"Too Young to Drive?" and "Rules of the Road"

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