Definition

Limited or restricted in resources or opportunities, often referring to financial situations.

Example

After losing his job, he found himself in a straitened financial situation.

Conversation

Have you noticed how the new furniture makes the room feel a bit straitened?

Yeah, it does seem a little cramped now, doesn't it?

I guess we should think about rearranging things to make it more spacious.

Good idea! A different layout might help the room feel less straitened.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make something narrower or more limited, often referring to financial or personal circumstances.

Example

After losing his job, he found himself in a straitened situation, struggling to pay his bills.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I was surprised when she told me they straitened their budget this month.

Really? That must have been tough for them.

Yeah, I can imagine it’s hard to adjust to that kind of situation.

Root Explanation

Straitened is formed from "strait" (from Old French *estreit*, meaning narrow or tight) and the suffix "-en" (meaning to make or become). The word "straitened" means to make or become narrow or tight, often referring to difficult circumstances or limited resources.

Memory Tip

Think of something becoming 'narrow' or 'tight' — that's what 'straitened' means, often in the context of facing difficulties.

Visually Confused Words