Meaning
约束 means to place limits or controls on someone or something, or the state of being restricted. It combines 约 (to bind/restrict) and 束 (to tie/bundle). The word can describe physical restraint, social rules, self-discipline, or any form of limitation that prevents free action.
Usage
约束 is commonly used in formal contexts, written Chinese, and discussions about rules, regulations, or self-control. It often appears with 受到 (to be subject to), 缺乏 (to lack), or as a modifier before nouns. The word carries a neutral to slightly negative connotation, implying necessary but sometimes burdensome limitations.
Examples
- 01孩子需要一定的约束才能养成良好的习惯。.Children need certain constraints in order to develop good habits.
- 02这个合同对双方都有法律约束力。.This contract has legal binding force on both parties.
Characters
Measure words
- 种一种约束
Common collocations
- 约束力binding force, constraining power
- 受到约束to be constrained
- 约束自己to restrain oneself
- 缺乏约束to lack restraint
Antonyms
Origin
Both characters relate to binding: 约 originally depicted a thread wrapped around something, while 束 shows wood bundled together. Together they emphasize the concept of restriction or control.