In everyday conversations, we often need to discuss limits and restrictions. Whether you’re talking about rules, regulations, or personal boundaries, having a variety of expressions can enhance your communication skills. Here are 20 expressions related to restriction, each with a brief meaning and an example sentence.
1. Bend the Rules
Meaning: Slightly alter the rules.
Example: He bent the rules to help her.
2. By the Book
Meaning: Follow rules exactly.
Example: She does everything by the book.
3. Cut Corners
Meaning: Do something in the easiest way.
Example: They cut corners to save time.
4. Draw the Line
Meaning: Set a limit.
Example: I draw the line at lying.
5. Follow Suit
Meaning: Do the same.
Example: She followed suit and left early.
6. Keep in Check
Meaning: Control or restrain.
Example: We must keep spending in check.
7. Lay Down the Law
Meaning: Establish rules strictly.
Example: He laid down the law at work.
8. Meet the Standards
Meaning: Reach the required level.
Example: This product meets the standards.
9. Set in Stone
Meaning: Fixed and unchangeable.
Example: The deadline is set in stone.
10. Stick to the Rules
Meaning: Follow the rules.
Example: They always stick to the rules.
11. Toe the Line
Meaning: Conform to rules.
Example: You must toe the line here.
12. Pull the Reins
Meaning: Exercise control.
Example: He pulled the reins on spending.
13. Put the Brakes On
Meaning: Slow down or stop.
Example: She put the brakes on plans.
14. Ring-Fence
Meaning: Protect for a specific purpose.
Example: Funds were ring-fenced for education.
15. Tighten the Belt
Meaning: Reduce spending.
Example: We need to tighten the belt now.
16. Clamp Down On
Meaning: Enforce rules strictly.
Example: The police clamped down on speeding.
17. Close the Door On
Meaning: Stop considering.
Example: They closed the door on that option.
18. Fence In
Meaning: Restrict movement.
Example: The garden was fenced in for safety.
19. Keep a Lid On
Meaning: Control or limit.
Example: He kept a lid on his anger.
20. Put in a Box
Meaning: Limit freedom.
Example: She felt put in a box at work.
