constrain

Synonym Chooser

How is the word constrain different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of constrain are coerce, compel, force, and oblige. While all these words mean "to make someone or something yield," constrain suggests the effect of a force or circumstance that limits freedom of action or choice.

constrained by conscience

When could coerce be used to replace constrain?

Although the words coerce and constrain have much in common, coerce suggests overcoming resistance or unwillingness by actual or threatened violence or pressure.

coerced into signing over the rights

When would compel be a good substitute for constrain?

The meanings of compel and constrain largely overlap; however, compel typically suggests overcoming of resistance or unwillingness by an irresistible force.

compelled to admit my mistake

Where would force be a reasonable alternative to constrain?

While the synonyms force and constrain are close in meaning, force is the general term and implies the overcoming of resistance by the exertion of strength, power, or duress.

forced to flee for their lives

When is oblige a more appropriate choice than constrain?

In some situations, the words oblige and constrain are roughly equivalent. However, oblige implies the constraint of necessity, law, or duty.

felt obliged to go

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of constrain Some companies, however, may be deterred from seeking such official rulings, as a potential unfavorable ruling could be constraining. Anniek Bao, CNBC, 18 June 2025 City staff estimate that approximately 480 owners could qualify under the preference policy, but the 150-foot buffer rule limiting the density of rentals could constrain approvals to about 325 permits, according to a staff report. Darrell Smith, Sacbee.com, 18 June 2025 Related Stories Ma said for retailers, margins have always been tight, so adding costs to supply chains constrains their businesses further. Meghan Hall, Sourcing Journal, 17 June 2025 The threat underscores the collapse of diplomatic efforts to constrain Iran’s program. Nik Popli, Time, 19 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for constrain
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constrain
Verb
  • However, the Supreme Court ruled that lawsuits to compel states to enforce Medicaid law—a federal statute—aren’t valid.
    Essence, Essence, 27 June 2025
  • Female clients of mine have also reported feeling compelled to embrace more traditionally feminine roles.
    Jerry Colonna, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
Verb
  • Camps nationwide are regulated in a number of ways in order to prevent tragedies.
    Michael Loria, USA Today, 8 July 2025
  • Unlike medications, supplements are not regulated by the FDA.
    Merve Ceylan, Health, 8 July 2025
Verb
  • One of the former detectives Dillard accused of helping harass and coerce a witness into testifying was among the Wolverines.
    Kristine Phillips, IndyStar, 3 July 2025
  • In the end, the evidence came down to how coerced the female victims were.
    Tracy Wright , Lauryn Overhultz , Maria Paronich , Brendan McDonald, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2025
Verb
  • For reference, a cigarette typically contains 10 to 15 mg of nicotine.
    Erica Sloan, SELF, 1 July 2025
  • The new collection contains 20 examples of chain-making expertise, many of which are paved with diamonds and paired with statement gems.
    Anthony DeMarco, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
Verb
  • Initially, the plant’s staff was overwhelmed, forcing Motorola to briefly backtrack on its promise to deliver phones to customers within four days.
    Verne Kopytoff, Fortune, 5 July 2025
  • Frankie Grande was forced to compete alone in a two person Battle of the Block Competition when his teammate Caleb abandoned him and sat out.
    Dalton Ross, EW.com, 5 July 2025
Verb
  • After the fire is fully contained, the next step is to control it.
    CA WILDFIRE BOT, Sacbee.com, 10 July 2025
  • The three main causes of hydroplaning are: Vehicle speed - When a vehicle's speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases.
    STAR-TELEGRAM WEATHER BOT Updated July 9, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 July 2025
Verb
  • Judges are not obligated to consider amicus briefs since they are submitted by non-parties.
    Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 23 June 2025
  • The family told the local station that doctors allegedly said they were legally obligated to keep Smith on life support until the fetus was viable.
    Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 19 June 2025
Verb
  • When restrained, Perry falls to the ground while still cursing, as seen in another video, and is then removed from the flight.
    Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 27 June 2025
  • Earlier this month, on June 17, a 32-year-old female New York resident was restrained and removed from a Southwest flight from LaGuardia to Kansas City.
    Colson Thayer, People.com, 26 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Constrain.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constrain. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.

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