B2verbformalacademiclaw
US/kənˈfaɪn/
UK/kənˈfaɪn/
to keep something within limits, or to keep someone in a small space they cannot leave
In context
Please confine your answer to two hundred words.
The problem is not confined to big cities; it happens in villages too.
After the accident, he was confined to bed for a month.
Words that go with confine
verb + preposition
- confined toThe damage was confined to the kitchen.
- confined to bedShe was confined to bed with a high fever.
- confine yourself toIn the essay, confine yourself to two main points.
adverb + verb
- largely confinedThe disease is largely confined to tropical areas.
adjective + noun
- confined spaceWorking in a confined space can be dangerous.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The problem is confined in the north.Correct: The problem is confined to the north.