C1adjectiveformallawpolitics
US/rɪˈstrɪk.tɪv/
UK/rɪˈstrɪk.tɪv/
limiting what people can do or have; stopping freedom
In context
The country has very restrictive laws on foreign ownership of land.
Some students find the school's rules too restrictive.
A restrictive diet is hard to follow for a long time.
Words that go with restrictive
adjective + noun
- restrictive policyThe restrictive policy reduced the number of visas.
- restrictive measuresThe city introduced restrictive measures on traffic.
- restrictive practicesUnions fought against restrictive practices.
- restrictive covenantThe contract contains a restrictive covenant.
adverb + adjective
- overly restrictiveThe rules are overly restrictive for small firms.
- too restrictiveThe dress code felt too restrictive.