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 This is a lot about self-control transmuted into wellness as the outlet. — Teresa Mull, FOXNews.com, 18 July 2026 Ubiquitous availability of gambling may be a convenience for the majority, paid for dearly by the minority for whom constant access challenges their self-control. — Jonathan Caulkins, The Conversation, 17 July 2026 These areas of the brain are engaged in reasoning, planning, and self-control. — Amanda Gardner, Martha Stewart, 5 July 2026 Practice kindness, and goodness and faithfulness and gentleness and self-control. — Jann E. Freed, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-control

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-control

Noun

The high-oil-price monster is threatening to break through its restraints.

— David Goldman, CNN Money, 24 July 2026
Perhaps more concerning, such restraints wouldn’t apply to foreign firms such as AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, and Novartis.

— Craig Garthwaite, Fortune, 24 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

Diosdado Cabello, who spent years overseeing Maduro’s apparatus of repression, remains in the cabinet.

— Stephania Taladrid, New Yorker, 20 July 2026
The movement, which had roots in the medieval tradition of churches providing sanctuary for those fleeing persecution, was aimed at providing a safe haven for Central Americans running from political repression and violence in their home countries.

— Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 18 July 2026