as in restraint
the power to control one's actions, impulses, or emotions
it takes self-discipline not to yell out when someone makes you angry
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Recent Examples of self-discipline
After weeks of daily fasting and self-discipline, Ramadan will conclude with a final celebration called Eid al-Fitr, to mark the end of the holy month.
—
Miami Herald, 13 Oct. 2025
So that is of course fantastic, the self-discipline and the self-motivation.
—Lori A Bashian, FOXNews.com, 18 Sep. 2025
Such opportunities inspire self-discipline, strengthen presentation skills, boost reputation and empower influence.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 12 Sep. 2025
Martial arts or yoga might be tools for self-discipline.
—Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 5 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-discipline
Miami Herald, 13 Oct. 2025
So that is of course fantastic, the self-discipline and the self-motivation.
—Lori A Bashian, FOXNews.com, 18 Sep. 2025
Such opportunities inspire self-discipline, strengthen presentation skills, boost reputation and empower influence.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 12 Sep. 2025
Martial arts or yoga might be tools for self-discipline.
—Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 5 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-discipline
Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-discipline
Noun
-
Chef David Richter cooks with confidence and restraint (his mole is the real deal); co-owner Jessica Richter manages the dining room.—
Hannah Howard,
Travel + Leisure,
16 Jan. 2026
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The kitchen, a blank slate designed by Zazueta with selections guided by Thacker, balances modern living with historic restraint.—
Gina Mayfield,
Dallas Morning News,
15 Jan. 2026
Noun
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But these moves would require real political willpower—so far, neither of them has come to pass.—
Will Gottsegen,
The Atlantic,
17 Jan. 2026
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Most New Year’s resolutions tend to be restrictive or rely on willpower, such as eliminating alcohol and sugar from your diet, or exercising every morning.—
Michele Patterson Ford,
The Conversation,
15 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Self-discipline.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-discipline. Accessed 22 Jan. 2026.
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