制约 zhìyuē to restrict
to restrict; condition
How to remember 制约: 制 system + 约 make an appointment = to restrict.
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How it is used
- Abstract 'to condition/constrain' - one factor limits or governs another - 供求关系制约价格 (gōngqiú guānxì zhìyuē jiàgé) supply and demand constrain prices.
- Often mutual and systemic: 相互制约 (mutual checks), 互相制约 in discussions of power, economics, ecology.
- Written register; not physical stopping (that's 制止) but a standing limiting relationship.