en English es español fr française it italiano de deutsche ja 日本語 pl polski cs česky sv svenska tr Türkçe nl Nederlands

"Curtail" vs. "restrain": where limits take shape

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 27/12/2024, 20:53
English.me team member
Curtail and restrain. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "curtail" and "restrain" are verbs that involve limiting or controlling something.

What is different?

"Curtail" means to reduce or cut short something in extent or quantity, often implying a reduction in duration or scope. "Restrain" means to hold back or prevent someone or something from acting, often implying control over actions, emotions, or physical movements.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for curtail) and restrain

Examples of usage

Curtail
  • The city decided to curtail water usage during the drought.
  • Budget cuts forced the school to curtail extracurricular activities.
  • They had to curtail their vacation due to an emergency at home.
Restrain
  • The security guard had to restrain the unruly passenger.
  • She tried to restrain her excitement during the surprise party.
  • Laws are in place to restrain harmful business practices.

Recommended posts in Difference

Unchaining meanings: exploring "caged" vs "captive"

Unchaining meanings: exploring "caged" vs "captive"

"Caged" specifically suggests being placed in a cage, a physical ... Learn more →

"Enthralled" vs. "engrossed": delving into captivating nuances

"Enthralled" vs. "engrossed": delving into captivating nuances

While both words imply a deep level of attention, "enthralled" ... Learn more →

"Journey" vs "trip": exploring the differences

"Journey" vs "trip": exploring the differences

"Journey" often implies a longer, more significant, or transformative travel ... Learn more →

"Notoriety" vs. "infamy": the battle of bad reputations

"Notoriety" vs. "infamy": the battle of bad reputations

The word "notoriety" implies being well-known for something specific and ... Learn more →