SELF-CONTROL Synonyms: 88 Similar and Opposite Words

self-control

noun

ˌself-kən-ˈtrōl

Definition of self-control

as in restraint

the power to control one's actions, impulses, or emotions toddlers have very little self-control

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in discipline

the checking of one's true feelings and impulses when dealing with others she could be passionate and intense, but generally exercised steely self-control in the company of strangers

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 self-control Alexander, or at least the Alexander that Plutarch conveys, spent the early part of his life demonstrating his extraordinary self-control. — Escher Walcott, PEOPLE, 1 June 2026 Stress lights up the brain’s threat circuits in the amygdala and quiets the prefrontal cortex — the region responsible for reasoning and self-control. — Big Think, 4 May 2026 Within the brain, executive functions include skills like behavioral self-control, attention, mental flexibility, and working memory. — Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 21 Apr. 2026 Adjust your self-control slowly to build trust. — Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 17 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-control

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-control

Noun

Because when everyone can generate content instantly, the real scarcity becomes originality, along with perspective, taste, restraint and conviction.

— Adam Taylor, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026
Indiana continues to emphasize fiscal restraint and has approved further tax reductions.

— The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 17 July 2026

Definition of restraint

Noun

Amendment 3 provides meaningful tax relief while encouraging local governments to spend taxpayer dollars with the same discipline families use to manage their own budgets.

— Eric "Doc" Stelnicki, Sun Sentinel, 20 July 2026
There is no indication Clarkson will face discipline from either the Knicks or the NBA, as his involvement was limited to trying to break up the altercation.

— Alejandro Avila OutKick, FOXNews.com, 20 July 2026

Definition of discipline

Noun

Put inhibitions aside to experience the latest episode of Doc Talk, hosted by John Ridley (12 Years a Slave, Shirley), and Matt Carey, Deadline’s senior documentary editor.

— Matthew Carey, Deadline, 30 June 2026
Darkness removes that inhibition and allows the pineal gland to release melatonin.

— Sally Ibrahim, The Conversation, 23 June 2026

Definition of inhibition

Noun

Responding to those sparks of abolitionist free thought with violent repression, including acts such as the Sumner caning, slaveholders’ violence fueled the rise of the new Republican Party.

— Paul Quigley, The Conversation, 13 July 2026
But in taking a wide view, does the exhibition thereby dilute the ideological specificity of respective neo-fascist repression and aggression?

— Ara H. Merjian, ARTnews.com, 10 July 2026