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stifling

[stahy-fling] / ˈstaɪ flɪŋ /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said "freedom of speech is the foundation of every university's success" but there had been too many cases contributing to "an unacceptable culture of fear and stifling the pursuit of knowledge".

From BBC • Apr. 19, 2026

Forty years ago in February, Jackson wriggled free of her father Joe Jackson’s stifling management with the release of “Control.”

From Salon • Apr. 11, 2026

Elevated mortgage rates, now at 6.55% for 30-year fixed loans, and cautious consumers are stifling housing demand.

From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026

He has also spearheaded efforts to reform a woefully slow acquisition system, minimize stifling regulations, and take advantage of an innovative private sector.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

"Be quick," he says, and I do my best to look purposeful while stifling my pride over talking my way past them.

From "Girl in the Blue Coat" by Monica Hesse




Vocabulary lists containing stifling