克制 (kè zhì) is a verb meaning 'to restrain (oneself)' — especially to hold back strong emotions, impulses, or desires. The character 克 (kè) originally means 'to overcome' or 'to subdue', while 制 (zhì) means 'to control' or 'to regulate'. Together, they convey the idea of actively mastering one’s inner reactions rather than letting them take over. It often implies self-discipline, emotional maturity, and conscious effort.

This word is commonly used in contexts involving anger, temptation, grief, excitement, or physical urges — for example, restraining oneself from shouting in frustration or resisting unhealthy food. It carries a slightly formal or literary tone and is frequently found in written Chinese, advice columns, psychological discussions, and moral education. Unlike casual alternatives like 忍 (rěn, 'to endure'), 克制 emphasizes deliberate, internal regulation rather than passive tolerance.