act constrainedly

verb phrase

Meaning

Behave in a forced, unnatural, or restricted manner due to internal pressure or external limitations.

Examples

  • The actor had to act constrainedly to portray a character who was trying to hide his true emotions.
  • When forced to work in such a rigid environment, employees often act constrainedly rather than sharing creative ideas.

Synonyms: stiffly, guardedly, restrainedly, artificially