Stifles

To stifle means to suppress, restrain, or prevent something from happening or expressing itself. It often implies a lack of freedom or opportunity for growth, development, or expression. This can apply to emotions, ideas, movements, or even physical processes. Stifling actions usually involve a controlling or limiting influence, preventing something from reaching its full potential or being openly displayed. The word implies a sense of constriction or suffocation, whether literal or figurative, and describes anything that dampens or hinders something from flourishing.

Stifles meaning with examples

• The oppressive heat of the crowded room stifles any desire to speak or socialize. We can no longer breathe. The suffocating atmosphere of the meeting stifles creative thinking; everyone is afraid to challenge the established norms and be heard. Her relentless criticism of his work stifles his desire to continue painting.
• The strict censorship imposed by the government stifles freedom of expression. This stifles the art to ever be seen. The heavy workload at the office stifles any time for personal hobbies. The rules stifle employee autonomy in the workplace; workers must wait to receive permission for every task. These rules stifle a sense of freedom.
• The conservative atmosphere within the company stifles innovation and experimentation. This is how ideas get trapped. The economic downturn stifles investment in new projects. The blanket of silence in the courtroom stifles the possibility for any truth to be spoken. The lack of funding stifles any attempts at starting the initiative.