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