How to Say "to restrain" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “to restrain” is “contener” — use 'contener' when holding back an internal emotion, like laughter or tears, or when physically holding someone or something back.
Use 'contener' when holding back an internal emotion, like laughter or tears, or when physically holding someone or something back.
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Use 'frenar' when holding back something abstract or a process, such as an increase, a trend, or an impulse, often with the idea of slowing it down.
Learn more →kon-te-nerkonteˈneɾ
Examples
No pudo contener la risa durante la clase.
He couldn't hold back his laughter during class.
La policía intentó contener a la multitud.
The police tried to restrain the crowd.
Tuve que contenerme para no gritar.
I had to hold myself back from shouting.
Using it on yourself
When you use this to mean 'to control yourself', you add '-se' (contenerse).
freh-NAHRfɾeˈnaɾ
Examples
El gobierno intenta frenar el aumento de los precios.
The government is trying to curb the price increases.
Tuve que frenar mi lengua para no decir algo grosero.
I had to hold my tongue to avoid saying something rude.
La falta de dinero frenó el proyecto.
The lack of money hindered the project.
Abstract usage
When using 'frenar' for emotions or abstract concepts, it acts exactly like 'to curb' or 'to check' in English.
Using with people
Mistake: “Saying 'frenar a mi amigo' when you mean 'stopping' them from leaving.”
Correction: Use 'frenar' only if you are literally or figuratively slowing their momentum or behavior; otherwise, use 'detener'.
Contener vs. Frenar
Learners often confuse 'contener' and 'frenar' when talking about holding back impulses or actions. Remember that 'contener' is more about internal feelings or direct physical restraint, while 'frenar' implies slowing down or stopping a process or external force.
Related Translations
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