制約 — meaning in English: Restriction

seiyaku · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for constraint

小教区

shōkyōku

闇

yami

制約

seiyaku

レギュレーション

regyurēshon

アプリケーション

apurikēshon

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use 制約 (seiyaku) in discussions about laws, regulations, or personal commitments. For instance, a business meeting may involve assessing 制約 related to budget limits or project deadlines, while a conversation about a friend's promise could highlight the 制約 they feel in keeping their word.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 限界 (genkai), which specifically refers to limits or boundaries. While both words imply some form of limitation, 制約 often carries connotations of formal obligations or restrictions, making it more suitable in legal or contractual contexts.

Culture

The term 制約 (seiyaku) is rooted in a combination of kanji, where 制 means 'to control' and 約 means 'to promise or to bind'. This linguistic construction reflects Japan's cultural emphasis on harmony and mutual respect, often leading individuals to feel bound by unspoken social contracts or obligations. Historically, the concept of 制約 has also influenced various aspects of Japanese governance and societal norms.

FAQ

Q.What does 制約 mean in English?

制約 (seiyaku) translates to 'restriction' in English, indicating a limitation or constraint imposed on someone or something, often in a formal context.

Q.How do I use 制約 in a sentence?

You can use 制約 in sentences such as 'プロジェクトには多くの制約がある' (There are many restrictions on the project) to convey limitations or conditions.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with using 制約?

A common mistake is using 制約 interchangeably with other words like 制限 (seigen), which means 'restriction' but often refers to more general limits. Remember, 制約 has a more formal nuance, especially in legal or contractual situations.

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