Synonyms of constrain

constrain

verb

kən-ˈstrān 

1

as in to compel

to cause (a person) to give in to pressure

constrained by conscience to tell only the truth

Synonyms & Similar Words

• compel
• coerce
• force
• obligate
• oblige
• drive
• impel
• pressure
• impress
• intimidate
• make
• muscle
• press
• blackmail
• threaten
• bully
• sandbag
• dragoon
• browbeat
• blackjack
• twist one's arm
• bulldoze
• terrorize
• drag
• shame
• harass
• hector
• cow
• high-pressure
• menace
• badger
• hound

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• let
• allow
• permit
• move
• induce
• satisfy
• convince
• argue
• talk (into)
• win (over)
• persuade
• prevail (on or upon)

2

as in to regulate

to keep from exceeding a desirable degree or level (as of expression)

constrained his anger at the needless interruption

Synonyms & Similar Words

• regulate
• contain
• control
• restrain
• keep
• curb
• stifle
• measure
• suppress
• inhibit
• govern
• tame
• rule
• hold
• check
• stop
• repress
• rein (in)
• impede
• hinder
• bridle
• interrupt
• pull in
• strangle
• swallow
• obstruct
• smother
• hamper
• choke (back)
• hold back
• block
• muffle
• arrest
• squelch
• sink
• silence
• bottle (up)
• mince
• handcuff
• pocket
• muzzle
• gag

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• lose
• liberate
• loosen
• express
• loose
• unleash
• take out
• vent
• air

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

Recent Examples of constrain

Courts, civil society, elections, local governments, protests, boycotts and independent media can constrain leaders and prevent escalation. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 17 Feb. 2026

Because bots aren’t constrained in the way humans are, a programmer might have several sessions running simultaneously, all working on different aspects of a project. —Lila Shroff, The Atlantic, 17 Feb. 2026

Ironically, the only places where developers are somewhat constrained are designated historic districts. —Roberta Brandes Gratz, New York Daily News, 15 Feb. 2026

Trump has repeatedly threatened to use force to compel Iran to agree to constrain its nuclear program and over Tehran's crackdown on nationwide protests. —Arkansas Online, 14 Feb. 2026