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confine

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /kənˈfaɪn/

KK: /kənˈfaɪn/

intransitive verb
Definition

To limit or restrict something within certain boundaries.


Example

The rules confine the players to a specific area during the game.


Tense Forms

Past: confined

Past Participle: confined


Conversation
Sloth A
I feel like my thoughts sometimes confine me from trying new things.
Sloth B
I get what you mean; it can be hard to break free from those limits.
Sloth A
Yeah, I wish I could just push through and not let them confine my choices.
Sloth B
You should definitely try! Exploring new ideas can be really liberating.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
border
Antonyms
expand
release
free
noun
Definition

A limit or boundary of a space or area, often referring to restrictions or the scope of something.


Example

The project was completed within the confines of the budget.


Conversation
Sloth A
I feel like we often put ourselves in the confines of our routines.
Sloth B
Yeah, it's easy to get stuck in a pattern and not explore new things.
Sloth A
Exactly! Sometimes I just want to break out of those confines and try something different.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To keep someone or something within certain limits or boundaries, often preventing movement or freedom.


Example

The dog was confined to the backyard to keep it safe.


Tense Forms

Past: confined

Past Participle: confined


Conversation
Sloth A
I heard they had to confine the dog to the backyard because it kept digging.
Sloth B
Yeah, that makes sense; it was causing a lot of trouble.
Sloth A
It's sad when they have to confine pets like that.
Root Explanation

Confine → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "finis" (meaning end or boundary). The word "confine" means to limit or restrict within boundaries or ends.

Memory Tip

Think of putting something "together" ('con-') within a defined "boundary" ('finis') — that's why confine means to limit within boundaries.

Visually Confused Words
conine
unconfine
reconfine
coneine
aconine
conin
unconfined
preconfine
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Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
limit
boundary
scope
Antonyms
freedom
expanse
liberty
Sloth B
I know, but sometimes it's for their own safety.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
restrict
limit
trap
Antonyms
release
free
liberate