curb
To restrain or limit something undesirable
Examples
In a meeting
“We need to curb unnecessary spending before the end of the quarter.”
Over coffee
“I'm trying to curb my coffee habit—down to two cups a day.”
Why this word
limit
curb emphasizes restraining or controlling something already in motion, while limit sets boundaries
reduce
curb implies active restraint of excess or undesirable growth, while reduce is more neutral
control
curb specifically means to check or restrain, while control is broader management
Usage tip
Use when restraining something negative or excessive. Implies control rather than complete elimination.
Etymology
Latin 'curvus' (curved), through Old French 'courbe' referring to a curved restraining strap
Get a new word every morning
One precise word per day. Under 60 seconds to read. Free forever.
Related words
restrict
To limit or control something within certain boundaries
harness
To capture and use something effectively for a particular purpose
throttle
To reduce the speed, rate, or flow of something
modulate
To adjust or vary the intensity, tone, or level of something
withhold
To deliberately keep back or refuse to give information, payment, or permission
curtail
To reduce or restrict something, often abruptly