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restrictive

limiting / constraining / confining / essential
Adjective
comp: more restrictivesup: most restrictive

This term carries a strong connotation of constraint and limitation, often evoking a sense of frustration or rigidity. It is frequently used in legal, political, or corporate contexts to describe rules, covenants, or policies that stifle growth or autonomy. In linguistic contexts, the term describes a specific functional role where information is indispensable for identification. This technical usage is neutral and descriptive, contrasting with the more negative tone found in social or economic descriptions.

Meanings

Adjective

Imposing limits on someone's freedom of action or behavior.

"The new government regulations are far too restrictive for small business owners."

Adjective

Serving to limit the size, amount, or scope of something.

"The company operates under a restrictive budget that prevents any new hiring this year."

Adjective

In grammar, used to describe a modifier that identifies a specific person or thing and is essential to the meaning of the sentence.

"The phrase in the sentence is a restrictive relative clause because it specifies which book is being discussed."

Related Words

Last Updated: June 14, 2026Report an Error