verb B2 Upper-Intermediate Uncommon

prohibit

pruh-HIH-biht

Prohibit (verb) means to forbid something officially, usually by law or rule. Example: “The new law prohibits smoking in public buildings.”

verb

To forbid something officially, usually by law or rule.

"The new law prohibits smoking in public buildings."

"Club rules prohibit guests from bringing outside food."

How to use prohibit

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo officially ban or forbid.

Common pairings

strictly prohibited prohibit the use of prohibit smoking

Word forms

prohibited past tense, prohibits singular

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The new law _____ smoking in public buildings.

Etymology

From Latin prohibeo, "to hold back, prevent."

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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forbid veto nix disallow interdict proscribe

Antonyms

admit allow approve authorize consent let ratify permit

Related words

let clear include hold allow choose authority agree

Rhymes for prohibit

inhibit exhibit

See all rhymes for prohibit →

Frequently asked questions

What does “prohibit” mean?

The word “prohibit” means to forbid something officially, usually by law or rule. In plain terms, to officially ban or forbid.

How do you pronounce “prohibit”?

“Prohibit” is pronounced pruh-HIH-biht (/pɹoʊˈhɪbɪt/ in IPA).

How do you use “prohibit” in a sentence?

Here is “prohibit” used in a sentence: “The new law prohibits smoking in public buildings.”

What is the opposite of “prohibit”?

The opposite of “prohibit” — its antonyms — are admit, allow, approve, authorize and consent.

What part of speech is “prohibit”?

“Prohibit” is a verb.

Where does the word “prohibit” come from?

The word “prohibit” comes from Latin. From Latin prohibeo, "to hold back, prevent.".

Is “prohibit” a common word?

“Prohibit” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

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