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intellectual restraint

[ɪn.təˈlek.tʃu.əl rɪˈstreɪnt]
nounpl: intellectual restraints
contenção intelectual
1. The practice of limiting or controlling one's intellectual expression, curiosity, or analytical thinking, often due to external pressures, self-censorship, or institutional constraints
The authoritarian regime imposed intellectual restraint on universities, preventing free academic discourse.
O regime autoritário impôs contenção intelectual nas universidades, impedindo o discurso académico livre.
2. The deliberate moderation or self-control in the expression of ideas, thoughts, or critical analysis
She exercised intellectual restraint when discussing sensitive political topics in the workplace.
Ela exerceu contenção intelectual ao discutir tópicos políticos sensíveis no local de trabalho.
Synonyms
censorshipsuppression of thoughtcognitive restraintmental inhibitionacademic restriction
Antonyms
intellectual freedomacademic libertyfreedom of thoughtopen discourseuninhibited thinking

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
contenção intelectual
Standard term used across Brazil
São Paulo
restrição intelectual
Alternative formal usage common in academic contexts
Portugal
refreio intelectual
More common in Portuguese usage; emphasizes the concept of restraining or bridling

Related Idioms & Phrases

keeping one's thoughts to oneself
biting one's tongue
holding back ideas
suppression of ideas
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