adjective

restrictive

rih-STRIK-tiv/rɪˈstrɪktɪv/

Limiting the range of what is possible or included.

This restrictive coat makes it hard to move my arms.

A person tries to move both arms in an overly tight stiff coat, visibly limited movement and frustrated expression, no injury.

Etymology

reLatinback

+strictLatindraw tight, bind

+iveLatinserving to

Drawing tight or binding first described a physical effect, including staunching blood. The adjective extended to terms and conditions that similarly constrain freedom or narrow the available choices.

In context

Libertarianism.org13:47

Libertarianism, I think, is rejected by most people as being too restrictive. That is so because it rules out rules out as illegitimate many forms of action

Freedom, Morality, and Justice (Frank Van Dun) - The Turney Collection - Libertarianism.org

More examples

The company's restrictive travel policy requires approval for every trip.
Her new diet is less restrictive and allows more variety.
A restrictive clause identifies which person or thing a noun refers to.

Forms

restrictive · more restrictive · most restrictive

restrict verb — To limit what is allowed or possible.

restriction noun — A limit on what is allowed.

Similar words

limiting: Applies broadly to anything that reduces available possibilities.
constraining: Emphasizes pressures that limit freedom of action or movement.
stringent: Emphasizes strict requirements rather than the range of choices.