‘节制’ is a compound word formed from 节 (jié), meaning ‘to moderate’ or ‘to regulate’, and 制 (zhì), meaning ‘to control’ or ‘to restrain’. Together, they express the idea of exercising self-restraint—especially in areas like eating, drinking, spending, or emotional expression—to maintain balance and well-being. It implies conscious limitation rather than total denial, emphasizing harmony and sustainability.

This word is commonly used in health-related contexts (e.g., diet, alcohol consumption, screen time) and moral or philosophical discussions about self-discipline. While it can function as a verb (e.g., 要节制饮食), it also appears as a noun meaning ‘moderation’ or ‘restraint’ (e.g., 缺乏节制). It carries a formal, slightly literary tone and is often found in advice, medical guidance, or Confucian-influenced discourse on virtuous living.