to stop, seize, or interrupt while in progress or on course
federal agents are able to interdict only a small percentage of the narcotic shipments into the country
How does the verb interdict differ from other similar words?
Some common synonyms of interdict are forbid, inhibit, and prohibit. While all these words mean "to debar one from doing something or to order that something not be done," interdict implies prohibition by civil or ecclesiastical authority usually for a given time or a declared purpose.
practices interdicted by the church
When is forbid a more appropriate choice than interdict?
While in some cases nearly identical to interdict, forbid implies that the order is from one in authority and that obedience is expected.
smoking is forbidden in the building
When is it sensible to use inhibit instead of interdict?
Although the words inhibit and interdict have much in common, 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 prohibit take the place of interdict?
In some situations, the words prohibit and interdict are roughly equivalent. However, prohibit suggests the issuing of laws, statutes, or regulations.
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