Cool MateRestrict
UK /["/rɪˈstrɪkt/","/rɪˈstrɪkts/","/rɪˈstrɪktɪd/","/rɪˈstrɪktɪŋ/"]/US /["/rɪˈstrɪkt/","/rɪˈstrɪkts/","/rɪˈstrɪktɪd/","/rɪˈstrɪktɪŋ/"]/
Definition
to limit the size, amount or range of something
In simple words: to limit or control something
Examples
- The new law will restrict the use of plastic bags in the city.
- The doctor decided to restrict his patient's diet for better health.
- You should restrict access to sensitive information for security reasons.
- Some websites restrict content based on your geographic location.
- To help him focus, she decided to restrict the number of distractions in his environment.
Usage notes
Typically used in formal and neutral contexts, 'restrict' can refer to limitations on rights, access, or actions. It may not be appropriate in casual conversation.
Grammar pattern
restrict + object
Memory hint
Think of 'restrict' as 're-string' — putting new limits on what you can say or do.
Collocations
- greatly
- seriously
- severely
- attempt to
- seek to
- try to
- to
- an attempt to restrict something
- measures to restrict something
- greatly
- seriously
- severely
- attempt to
- seek to
- try to
- to
- an attempt to restrict something
- measures to restrict something
Synonyms
- impede
Antonyms
- allow
- permit
- liberate
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'restrictive' which describes something that limits.
- Using 'restrict' without an object, which is incorrect.
- Mixing up with 'refuse', which has a different meaning.