fence in
The phrase "fence in" can be used both literally to describe enclosing an area with a barrier, and figuratively to describe restricting someone's freedom.
🇺🇸 US Voice:
🇬🇧 UK Voice:
Definition
B1General
(literal)To enclose an area or object completely with a barrier.
Example
- He plans to fence in about 100 acres of his ranch.
- She would need to fence in the field if she wants to keep a horse there.
B2General
(figurative)To limit someone's freedom of movement or action.
Example
- She felt fenced in by the strict rules of her household.
- He was basically fenced in by the company's policies.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "fence in":
fenced inhedge inpicket fenceover the fencefence hopperon the fencesee-through fenceshut in