1. to force or compel someone to follow a particular course of action
2. to severely restrict the scope, extent, or activity of something
3. to hold back by force; to restrain physically

Examples

• Budget cuts constrained the school’s ability to hire new teachers.
• The tight deadline constrained our options for the project.
• Financial difficulties constrained them to sell their house.
• The narrow hallway constrained movement through the building.
• Legal regulations constrain how companies can advertise to children.
• She felt constrained by her family’s expectations.
• The small budget constrained the film’s production values.