restrictive practice: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Not always, but it often is or is subject to legal challenge. Many countries have specific laws (like Competition Law) that prohibit anti-competitive restrictive practices. Some labour-related practices may be negotiated but can be deemed unlawful if they seriously harm the economy.

A 'restrictive practice' relates to trade, labour, or commerce. A 'restrictive covenant' is usually a clause in a property deed or employment contract limiting the use of land or an employee's future work activities (e.g., a non-compete clause).

Typically, it involves an agreement or collective action between multiple parties (e.g., several companies or a union and its members). A single company's monopoly might be examined under 'abuse of dominant position,' which is a related but distinct concept.

It became a key political term in the UK during the 1960s-80s, linked to debates about poor industrial productivity, powerful trade unions, and the subsequent reforms to limit union power and promote free markets under governments of the era.

A rule, agreement, or arrangement within a profession, trade, or industry that limits competition or reduces efficiency, often to protect the interests of its members.

Restrictive practice is usually formal, business, legal, academic in register.

Restrictive practice: in British English it is pronounced /rɪˌstrɪk.tɪv ˈpræk.tɪs/, and in American English it is pronounced /rɪˌstrɪk.tɪv ˈpræk.tɪs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.