Synonym Chooser

How does the verb prohibit differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of prohibit are forbid, inhibit, and interdict. While all these words mean "to debar one from doing something or to order that something not be done," prohibit suggests the issuing of laws, statutes, or regulations.

prohibited the sale of liquor

When can forbid be used instead of prohibit?

In some situations, the words forbid and prohibit are roughly equivalent. However, 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 prohibit?

The synonyms inhibit and prohibit are sometimes interchangeable, but 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

When could interdict be used to replace prohibit?

While the synonyms interdict and prohibit are close in meaning, interdict implies prohibition by civil or ecclesiastical authority usually for a given time or a declared purpose.

practices interdicted by the church

Examples of prohibit in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web And even though Ziklag did not directly host the Vance event, tax experts say that its funding of the Courage Tour — as described in the group’s internal documents — could be seen as indirect campaign intervention, which federal tax law prohibits. Andy Kroll, ProPublica, 18 Oct. 2024 Italian lawmakers banned families from going abroad to have a baby through surrogacy, effectively prohibiting LGBTQ+ couples from becoming biological parents. Samantha Riedel, Them, 17 Oct. 2024 What is prohibited at Footprint Center for concerts? Ed Masley, The Arizona Republic, 17 Oct. 2024 That is why Indiana prohibits local governments and law enforcement from adopting policies that restrict cooperation with federal authorities. Hayleigh Colombo, The Indianapolis Star, 9 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for prohibit 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'prohibit.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near prohibit

Cite this Entry

“Prohibit.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prohibit. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on prohibit

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