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forbid

Q: How does the verb 'forbid' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of forbid are inhibit , interdict , and prohibit . While all these words mean "to debar one from doing something or to order that something not be done," forbid implies that the order is from one in authority and that obedience is expected. // smoking is forbidden in the building

Q: When would 'inhibit' be a good substitute for 'forbid'?

While in some cases nearly identical to forbid , inhibit implies restraints or restrictions that amount to prohibitions, not only by authority but also by the exigencies of the time or situation. // conditions inhibiting the growth of free trade

Q: In what contexts can 'interdict' take the place of 'forbid'?

Although the words interdict and forbid have much in common, interdict implies prohibition by civil or ecclesiastical authority usually for a given time or a declared purpose. // practices interdicted by the church

Q: When could 'prohibit' be used to replace 'forbid'?

While the synonyms prohibit and forbid are close in meaning, prohibit suggests the issuing of laws, statutes, or regulations. // prohibited the sale of liquor

verb

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Synonyms & Antonyms of forbid

to order not to do or use or to be done or used

smoking is forbidden throughout the building

we forbid you to see him

Synonyms for forbid

Words Related to forbid

Near Antonyms for forbid

Antonyms for forbid

Frequently Asked Questions About forbid

How does the verb forbid differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of forbid are inhibit, interdict, and prohibit. While all these words mean "to debar one from doing something or to order that something not be done," forbid implies that the order is from one in authority and that obedience is expected.

smoking is forbidden in the building

When would inhibit be a good substitute for forbid?

While in some cases nearly identical to forbid, inhibit implies restraints or restrictions that amount to prohibitions, not only by authority but also by the exigencies of the time or situation.

conditions inhibiting the growth of free trade

In what contexts can interdict take the place of forbid?

Although the words interdict and forbid have much in common, interdict implies prohibition by civil or ecclesiastical authority usually for a given time or a declared purpose.

practices interdicted by the church