schränken
Translation
to restrict, to limit, to confine, to cross (arms/legs)
Examples
Er musste sich finanziell schränken.
He had to restrict himself financially.
Sie schränkte die Arme vor der Brust.
She crossed her arms in front of her chest.
Grammar Patterns
sich ((auf+4)) schränken to restrict oneself to sth. One must restrict oneself to the essentials.
et4 schränken to restrict sth. The new rules restrict freedom.
Similar Words
Synonyms: begrenzen, limitieren; Antonyms: erweitern
Etymology
Related to 'Schrank' (cupboard), from the idea of putting something into a confined space.
Memory Tips
Imagine a 'Schrank' (cupboard) which 'schränkt' (restricts) the space for your clothes.