Constrain vs. Constraint: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on November 15, 2023
"Constrain" is a verb meaning to compel or force someone to follow a particular course of action, while "constraint" is a noun referring to a limitation or restriction.
Key Differences
Constrain is an action verb, indicating the act of restricting or compelling someone or something to follow a certain path or to act in a specific way. A constraint is the condition of being restricted or the factor that limits or restricts someone or something. One involves action (to constrain), and the other refers to the state or condition resulting from this action (constraint).
Sumera Saeed
Nov 14, 2023
Laws constrain behavior, meaning they impose restrictions on what individuals are allowed to do. On the other hand, a constraint is something that exists within a system or a set of rules, like a budget constraint, which limits how money can be spent.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 14, 2023
When a software application fails to operate, it might be because the system's resources constrain it. Alternatively, a constraint in this context would be the actual limit on resources, like memory or processing power, that prevents the software from functioning properly.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 14, 2023
Physical barriers constrain movement, such as fences that prevent people from entering certain areas. The constraints of these barriers are the limitations they impose on freedom of movement.
Janet White
Nov 14, 2023
To constrain one's emotions is to control or hold them back, an action often necessitated by social norms or personal discipline. Emotional constraints are the forces or conditions that make such control necessary, such as the expectation to maintain composure in public settings.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 14, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Usage in Sentence
"The rules constrain our options."
"There are constraints on our options."
Sumera Saeed
Nov 14, 2023
Form
Action-oriented process
Condition or state resulting from being constrained
Janet White
Nov 14, 2023
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Constrain and Constraint Definitions
Constrain
To compel or force.
The circumstances constrained her to make a hasty decision.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Constraint
A factor that restricts possibilities.
Lack of resources is a significant constraint.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Constrain
To limit or control.
She felt constrained by her family's expectations.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 01, 2023
Constraint
State of being constrained.
The constraint of the regulations affected all companies.
Janet White
Nov 01, 2023
Constrain
To restrict the activities or free movement.
High security measures constrained the flow of traffic.
Sara Rehman
Nov 01, 2023
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Constraint
Physical limitation.
The small room was a constraint on their activities.
Harlon Moss
Nov 01, 2023
Constrain
To hold back or inhibit.
He constrained his anger during the argument.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Constraint
A limitation or restriction.
The main constraint of the project was its budget.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Constrain
To confine within bounds.
The athletes were constrained to the playing field.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 01, 2023
Constraint
Psychological inhibition.
Social norms can act as a constraint on behavior.
Harlon Moss
Nov 01, 2023
Constrain
To keep within certain limits; confine or limit
"Legislators ... used the power of the purse to constrain the size of the military" (Julian E. Zelizer).
Sumera Saeed
Oct 10, 2023
Constraint
The threat or use of force to prevent, restrict, or dictate the action or thought of others.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 10, 2023
Constrain
To inhibit or restrain; hold back
"She noticed her mother blushing and acting somewhat constrained in her conversation with the grandmother" (David Huddle).
Sumera Saeed
Oct 10, 2023
Constraint
The state of being restricted or confined within prescribed bounds
Soon tired of the constraint of military life.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 10, 2023
FAQs
How do constraints affect decision-making?
They limit the available options.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 14, 2023
Can emotional constraints be harmful?
Potentially, if they prevent healthy expression.
Janet White
Nov 14, 2023
Are constraints necessary in education?
Yes, they help maintain order and focus.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 14, 2023
Is being constrained the same as being imprisoned?
Not necessarily; imprisonment is a severe form of constraint.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 14, 2023
Can you give an example of a constraint in nature?
Predation is a constraint on prey populations.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 14, 2023
Can technological advances remove constraints?
They can reduce or shift existing constraints.
Janet White
Nov 14, 2023
Is constraint synonymous with control?
Control can be a form of constraint, but not all constraints are controls.
Sara Rehman
Nov 14, 2023
Can laws constrain people unfairly?
Some argue they can, depending on perspective.
Harlon Moss
Nov 14, 2023
How does society constrain individual behavior?
Through laws and social norms.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 14, 2023
How do budget constraints affect businesses?
They limit spending and investment.
Harlon Moss
Nov 14, 2023
How do constraints relate to freedom?
They are boundaries within which freedom is exercised.
Sara Rehman
Nov 14, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
