ENGLISH
REFERENCE

constrained

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //kənˈstɹeɪnd// UK //kənstɹˈeɪnd// con·strained

adj. limited by rules, conditions, or a lack of resources. You use this when something cannot be free or unlimited because of outside factors.

adj. restricted in scope, extent, or freedom by external limits or internal conditions. Often used predicatively after linking verbs such as 'be' or 'feel'.


SIMPLE

Our budget is constrained by strict rules.

CONTEXTUAL

The team's creativity was constrained by the tight deadline and limited software tools.

COMPLEX

Despite the constrained resources, the architect designed a sustainable home that maximized natural light and minimized waste.

Synonyms
Usage

The adjective is often followed by 'by' to introduce the limiting factor.

© 2026 English Reference