0
Anonymous Posted 11 years ago
Grammar

constrain = restrain?

Are the 2 words the same? Are the sentences natural?
Unless you constrain/restrain her, she isn't going to cry
I don't swaddle my baby because she doesn't like to feel constrained.

Thank you
  

Top answer

"Constrain" means to limit; "restrain" means to hold back. "Constrain" has metaphorical usages, and the things used to constrain are called "constraints,"' which call to mind straps or other unpleasant devices. " I had a moment's puzzlement with your first sentence because I was expecting "unless" to introduce a lack of something desirable.

— Deadrat

  • "Constrain" means to limit; "restrain" means to hold back.
  • "Constrain" has metaphorical usages, and the things used to constrain are called "constraints,"' which call to mind straps or other unpleasant devices.
  • " I had a moment's puzzlement with your first sentence because I was expecting "unless" to introduce a lack of something desirable.
  • Maybe it's just me, but I'd say: Your baby will cry if you constrict her movement.
  • I don't swaddle my baby because she doesn't like to feel constricted.
Free · every Monday

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

New words, one handy idiom, and a 2-minute quiz — delivered to your inbox to keep your streak alive.

1 Answers
0
"Constrain" means to limit; "restrain" means to hold back.

"Constrain" has metaphorical usages, and the things used to constrain are called "constraints,"' which call to mind straps or other unpleasant devices. I think the better word is "constrict."

I had a moment's puzzlement with your first sentence because I was expecting "unless" to introduce a lack of something desirable.
0

Related Questions