Synonyms of restrict

restrict

verb

ri-ˈstrikt 

as in to limit

to set bounds or an upper limit for

will restrict access to the laboratory

Synonyms & Similar Words

• limit
• confine
• tighten
• hinder
• impede
• hold down
• circumscribe
• suppress
• obstruct
• cap
• block
• hamper
• modify
• narrow
• lessen
• repress
• constrict
• number
• bar
• squeeze
• quell
• qualify
• contract
• pinch

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• exceed
• expand
• broaden
• widen
• overextend
• overreach

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of restrict are circumscribe, confine, and limit. While all these words mean "to set bounds for," restrict suggests a narrowing or tightening or restraining within or as if within an encircling boundary.

laws intended to restrict the freedom of the press

When might circumscribe be a better fit than restrict?

The words circumscribe and restrict are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, circumscribe stresses a restriction on all sides and by clearly defined boundaries.

the work of the investigating committee was carefully circumscribed

When can confine be used instead of restrict?

Although the words confine and restrict have much in common, confine suggests severe restraint and a resulting cramping, fettering, or hampering.

our choices were confined by finances

When would limit be a good substitute for restrict?

In some situations, the words limit and restrict are roughly equivalent. However, limit implies setting a point or line (as in time, space, speed, or degree) beyond which something cannot or is not permitted to go.

visits are limited to 30 minutes

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of restrict

Cincinnati is restricting nighttime rentals of Red Bikes and electric scooters in the urban core over the Fourth of July weekend. —David Ferrara, The Enquirer, 4 July 2025

Juniper responded by asserting that the DOJ’s definition of the market was incorrect and that the merger would promote—rather than restrict—innovation. —Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 3 July 2025

The government’s top vaccine official working under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently restricted the approval of two COVID-19 vaccines, disregarding recommendations from government scientists, according to federal documents released yesterday. —Chicago Tribune, 3 July 2025

Aiming to streamline and lower the cost of construction in California, the new laws also restrict legal challenges under CEQA by narrowing the documents courts can consider. —Terry Collins, USA Today, 3 July 2025