restrain - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
restrain Word Meanings
- to hold back from action
- to prevent someone from doing something
- to limit or control someone’s behavior
restrain Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
restrain Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈstreɪn/
US
/rɪˈstreɪn/
restrain Word Etymology
re- = back + strain = bind. Historical origin: Latin 'restringere' → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a person pulling back a rubber band, struggling to keep it from snapping forward—this represents holding back or controlling.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Restrain is a verb that means to hold back from action, to prevent someone from acting in a particular way, or to limit or control someone’s behavior. It can describe physical self-control, as in stopping yourself from rushing forward, or social or regulatory limits, such as rules that restrain a company’s advertising. The nuance is often about the effort and self-discipline required to stop an impulse, not merely a prohibition by someone else. In everyday speech, we often say 'restrain yourself' or 'restrain him from doing something,' while 'restrain' can also appear in legal or medical contexts about limitations or containment. Confusion with 'restrict' or 'refrain' is common, so practice is key.
Usage Reminders
- Use restrain to describe holding back actions or controlling behavior.
- Common patterns: restrain yourself, restrain someone from doing something.
- Don't use restrain for general limits; 'restrict' is for general limits and 'refrain' is voluntary avoidance.
- Be careful with the noun 'restraint' which means a physical or legal limitation.
- Practice with self-control scenarios to build instinct for when to choose restrain.
Common Misconceptions
- It always implies physical force.
- It can only describe emotions, not actions.
- It is the same as 'restrict'.
- It requires a direct object always (you must restrain someone).
- It is only used in formal or legal contexts.
Thinking Differences
This concept centers on active control—holding back action or curbing behavior. Learners often mix it with restrict (general limitation) or refrain (voluntary abstention). Focus on who is restraining and who is restrained, and on contexts like self-control vs. external containment.
Learning Tips
- Notice common collocations: restrain yourself, restrain someone from doing something.
- Differentiate restrain from restrict (general limit) and refrain (voluntary abstention).
- Watch for passive constructions where restraint is imposed by authorities.
- Practice with emotional vs physical restraint to feel the difference.
- Use the noun 'restraint' to describe limits or containment, not just willpower.
- Read or listen to formal contexts (legal, medical) to hear natural usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'restrain'?
A.Keep safe
B.Encourage
C.Hold back
D.Release
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'restrain' used correctly?
A.They restrained the dog from running into the street.
B.She released her anger.
C.He encouraged his friend to study.
D.The teacher kept safe during the experiment.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'restrain'?
A.Free
B.Encourage
C.Limit
D.Support
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what situation would you need to restrain yourself?
A.Eating your favorite food
B.Studying for an exam
C.Resisting the urge to interrupt someone speaking
D.Taking a relaxing vacation
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'restrain' in a real-life context?
A.While watching a movie
B.During a heated argument
C.At a party with friends
D.When playing a sport
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