约束 yuēshù to restrict
to restrict; to limit to; to constrain; restriction; constraint
How to remember 约束: 约 make an appointment + 束 bundle = to restrict.
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How it is used
- To restrain / constrain, or a constraint - 约束自己的行为 (yuēshù zìjǐ de xíngwéi) rein in one's behavior, 制度的约束 (zhìdù de yuēshù) institutional constraints.
- About holding within limits/rules; both verb and noun. Contrast 限制 (xiànzhì, restrict quantity/scope) - 约束 is more about binding conduct to norms.
- Formal, rules and self-discipline register.