Master confusing words with ease
Prohibit vs. Forbid
Prohibit
/prəˈhɪbət/Examples:
South End is prohibited, if you please.The building's entry is prohibited to all pets.Smoking is prohibited within the premises of this facility.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Forbid
/fəˈbɪd/Examples:
Remember sarcasm is forbidden and sincerity the order of the day.—Emma blushed, and forbade its being pronounced in her hearing.The difference between our ages, tastes, and habits, forbids it.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Ways to tell them apart:
- Prohibit often implies a law or rule that disallows something.
- Forbid can be used in both formal and informal contexts, not necessarily tied to laws.
- Think of prohibit as more authoritative, like an official ban, while forbid can be a personal disallowance.
- Prohibit is more likely used in legal or formal contexts, such as policies.
- Forbid can be used in everyday conversation for personal preferences or rules.
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