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

Relevance

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

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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 Temperance, moderation, self-control, discernment – qualities such as these add up to a timeless excellence of character that cannot be faked. — Ross Channing Reed, The Conversation, 5 June 2026 Limits help develop self-control, responsibility, and decision making. — Jose Bolaños, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Apr. 2026 Within the brain, executive functions include skills like behavioral self-control, attention, mental flexibility, and working memory. — Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 21 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-control

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-control

Noun

Under an existing state appropriations restraint, also known as the Gann Limit, lawmakers cannot spend more than an amount determined by a formula that takes annual tax proceeds, changes to the population and cost of living into consideration.

— Iris Kwok, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026
For 70 minutes, Paraguay had played with corseted restraint, frustrating France with organisation, concentration and no little gamesmanship.

— Adam Crafton, New York Times, 5 July 2026

Definition of restraint

Noun

Last fall, Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island became the first in the country to launch an in person, three-year bachelor’s degree in specific disciplines.

— Editorial, Boston Herald, 6 July 2026
In Aries, the taskmaster planet brings maturity and discipline to a Fire sign associated with independence, impulse and passion.

— Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 6 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

His approach has drawn criticism from some Sikh groups, who accuse Ottawa of failing to hold India accountable or safeguard Sikh Canadians from foreign interference and transnational repression.

— CNN Money, CNN Money, 8 July 2026
Government repression increasingly targeted Catholic clergy in communities in Quiché, and Gerardi began to openly protest the violent acts.

— Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 July 2026