A constraint is a condition that restricts what is possible.

The idea

Use constraint as a countable noun, often with on or in time constraints.

Examples

  • A tight budget is a constraint.
  • Time constraints affected the design.
  • The team worked within financial constraints.
  • The rule imposes a constraint on development.
  • Space constraints limit our options.
  • We must consider each constraint.

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Watch out

A constraint limits choices; it need not stop progress altogether.

Try it yourself

  1. Choose the correct answer. The small grant is a financial ___. (constraint / benefit)

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    constraint

    Constraint names the financial limit.

  2. Choose the correct answer. The project faces two time ___. (constraint / constraints)

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    constraints

    Constraints is plural after two.

  3. Choose the correct answer. The law imposes a constraint ___ construction. (on / at)

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    on

    On introduces what the constraint affects.

Use it today

Describe a constraint on a project and how you would work within it.