to restrict / limit
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to restrict
To reduce or limit something in its scope, quantity, or possibilities.
Wegen der Baustelle müssen wir die Geschwindigkeit auf 30 km/h einschränken.
Because of the construction site, we have to restrict the speed to 30 km/h.
to cut back
To consciously reduce one’s own needs, wishes, or spending, often for financial or health reasons.
Seit er studiert, muss er sich finanziell ziemlich einschränken.
Since he started studying, he has had to cut back quite a lot financially.
to restrict
To reduce the freedom, rights, or opportunities of a person or group.
Das neue Gesetz schränkt die Versammlungsfreiheit erheblich ein.
The new law significantly restricts freedom of assembly.
'Einschränken' (to restrict/limit) is a separable verb. In a main clause, the prefix 'ein-' comes at the end. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together, with 'zu' placed between the prefix and the stem.
Der Arzt schränkt den Zuckerkonsum des Patienten ein.
The doctor restricts the patient’s sugar consumption.
The verb is made up of 'ein-' and 'schränken'. It is related to the word 'die Schranke' (a barrier). The idea is to put something 'in Schranken' (within bounds), that is, to set limits or limit something.
Wir müssen unsere Ausgaben diesen Monat stark einschränken.
We have to restrict our spending significantly this month.
When a person reduces their own spending or needs, the verb is used reflexively: 'sich einschränken' (to cut back/restrict oneself). The reason is often financial or related to a diet.
Als Student musste ich mich finanziell sehr einschränken.
As a student, I had to cut back a lot financially.
'Einschränken' (to restrict/limit) is often used with abstract nouns in the accusative to express a reduction. Typical objects are 'den Konsum' (consumption), 'die Auswahl' (the selection), 'die Produktion' (production), 'die Rechte' (rights), or 'die Freiheit' (freedom).
Die Firma musste die Produktion aufgrund von Lieferproblemen einschränken.
The company had to restrict production because of supply problems.
to reduce
Reduzieren emphasizes that an amount or scope becomes smaller. Einschränken can also describe a reduction, but it focuses more strongly on setting a limit or giving up possibilities. Use reduzieren for a measurable decrease; for deliberately limiting consumption, einschränken is often more appropriate.
Mara muss sich wegen ihres knappen Budgets beim Einkaufen einschränken.
Because of her tight budget, Mara has to cut back when shopping.
Mara reduziert ihre monatlichen Ausgaben um hundert Euro.
Mara is reducing her monthly expenses by one hundred euros.
