Definition of forbidnext

Synonym Chooser

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

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

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of forbid Florida’s sanctuary city laws forbid local governments from impeding ICE from doing its job, such as by not sharing information with the federal government. Syra Ortiz Blanes, Miami Herald, 26 June 2026 The case forbade the use of irrigation water to drown gophers. Emily Cureton Cook, ProPublica, 26 June 2026 This feature is useful for people working in company’s where the installation of software is forbidden on security ground. Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 Article 6 of the United States Constitution, written in Philadelphia in 1787, forbade any religious oaths for those who wanted to hold office. Peter C. Mancall, The Conversation, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for forbid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for forbid
Verb
  • Freedom 250 says blankets are allowed, but lawn chairs, coolers, drink tumblers and aerosol sunscreen are prohibited.
    Mike Stunson, USA Today, 3 July 2026
  • In February, a federal judge halted a California law that prohibited federal officers from wearing masks while on duty.
    Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026
Verb
  • After thousands of Nepalese citizens volunteered to fight for Russia, Nepal banned any travel to Ukraine or Russia for work.
    Max Saltman, CNN Money, 28 June 2026
  • Transgender athletes The court heard arguments in January over the legality of laws in Idaho and West Virginia banning transgender athletes from female sports teams at public schools including universities.
    Will Dunham, USA Today, 28 June 2026
Verb
  • People of faith gathered in secrecy for services, and religion was outlawed.
    Mark Temnycky, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026
  • The law, however, does not outlaw current ownership of the pistols or the private resale of such firearms.
    David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 24 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Forbid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/forbid. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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