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

The city acquired the building in 2005 using federal Community Development Block Grant funds, which restricted its use to activities eligible under the federal program. — Camryn Dadey, Sacbee.com, 29 Oct. 2026

Rail, river and air traffic in the area were also restricted out of precaution, a news release said. — Emma Tucker, CNN Money, 29 Oct. 2026

The institution was established by the Bureau of Indian Affairs in the 1940s to offer a high school education for rural Alaska Native students, who historically were restricted from learning about their cultures. — Kate Nelson, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Oct. 2026

That severely restricts the permissible reasons for communities to reject affordable housing proposals; most standard rules are pre-empted, and only matters of substantial public health or safety concerns qualify. — Don Stacom, Hartford Courant, 28 Oct. 2026