Selfrestraint is a compound word made up of two words, "self" and "restraint". The word is spelled as [sɛlf-rɪˈstreɪnt] in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced as "self" with a short E sound, while the second syllable is pronounced as "ri" with an I sound and "streint" with a long A sound. The word means the act of restraining oneself from doing something, especially when it comes to impulsive or inappropriate behavior.
Self-restraint is a concept that refers to the act or quality of exercising control over one's desires, impulses, or actions. It involves the ability to resist immediate gratification or impulsive reactions in order to adhere to a higher principle or to achieve a long-term goal. This form of restraint is often exercised to maintain self-discipline, adhere to moral or ethical principles, or demonstrate willpower in the face of temptations or challenges.
The act of self-restraint requires individuals to evaluate the potential consequences of their actions, consider the impact on themselves or others, and consciously choose to regulate their behavior accordingly. It involves a conscious decision-making process that weighs short-term desires against long-term objectives, often involving sacrifice or moderation for the sake of a greater good.
Self-restraint can manifest in various aspects of life, such as controlling one's temper during conflicts, resisting temptations like overeating or overspending, refraining from engaging in harmful behaviors, or practicing moderation in all areas of life. It is closely associated with self-control, discipline, and the ability to delay gratification.
People who possess self-restraint often exhibit characteristics like patience, resilience, and a strong sense of responsibility. It can be cultivated through consistent practice, habit-building, and an awareness of one's own triggers or weaknesses. Self-restraint is considered a desirable trait as it fosters personal growth, stability, and the ability to make well-informed decisions based on rationality rather than momentary impulses.
The word "selfrestraint" is a compound formed from two separate words, "self" and "restraint". Here is the etymology of each word:
1. Self
The word "self" originated from the Old English word "sylf", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*selbaz". This Proto-Germanic root likely has Indo-European origins, which is reflected in related words in other Germanic languages. The word eventually evolved into "self" in Middle English.
2. Restraint
The word "restraint" came from the Old French word "restreindre", which means "to restrain". It is derived from the Latin word "restringere", which has the same meaning. "Restringere" is formed from the roots "re-" meaning "back" or "again", and "stringere" meaning "to bind" or "to draw tight".