unconstrained
un-kuhn-STRAYND
/ˌʌnkənˈstreɪnd/
Not restricted or limited by anything.
Often describes abstract things like growth, imagination, or markets rather than people.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'stringere', meaning 'to draw tight' or 'bind'. To be unconstrained is to have the bindings removed.
Word relationships
- unfettered: Unfettered implies the removal of specific chains or shackles; unconstrained is more general.
- restricted: Restricted implies being kept within certain limits.
Commonly confused with
- unrestrained: Unrestrained often implies a lack of self-control (like an unrestrained outburst).
Word family
- constrain (verb): To limit or restrict.
Collocations
- unconstrained growth
- unconstrained by rules
- unconstrained access
Example sentences
- "The economist argued for unconstrained market competition to drive innovation." Economics
- "Her unconstrained imagination allowed her to write stories that defied every genre." Creativity
Memory hook
If you are unconstrained, you are not 'strained' by any 'constraints'. No limits.
When not to use
Avoid in casual conversation where 'free' or 'limitless' would suffice.
Fun facts
- In mathematics, an 'unconstrained problem' is one where the variables can take any value.
Related words
Explore more words
uninhibited, unconventional, discretionary, uninterrupted, unforeseen, uncharted
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