Cool MateBan vs Forbid
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Ban
Top 2,000 (common)B1verb
Forbid
FormalBeyond 10,000 (less common)B2verb
Most formal: ForbidMost common: Ban
| Ban | Forbid | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //bæn//🇺🇸 //bæn// | 🇬🇧 //fəˈbɪd//🇺🇸 //fərˈbɪd// |
| Meaning | To say something is not allowed. | To not allow something. |
| Example | The government decided to ban smoking in all public places. | The school decided to forbid cell phones during classes. |
| Register | Neutral | Formal |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Beyond 10,000 (less common) |
| CEFR level | B1 | B2 |
| Part of speech | verb | verb |
| Collocations | ban on smoking, ban weapons, ban certain activities | forbid someone to do something, forbid access, forbid entry, forbid alcohol, forbid use |
| Antonyms | allow, permit, approve | permit, allow, authorize |
| Common mistakes | Confusing 'ban' with 'prohibit' - they have similar meanings but different uses., Using 'ban' without a clear object - 'ban something' is necessary., Omitting the context when saying 'ban' - it should be clear what is banned. | Confusing with 'prohibit' - 'forbid' is more personal, while 'prohibit' is often legal., Using the wrong tense - ensure proper tense matching with 'forbade' in the past., Misplacing 'to' - do not say 'forbid to do something', just use 'forbid someone to do something'. |
| Usage notes | Used in legal or formal contexts. Avoid in casual conversation unless discussing specific rules. 'Ban' implies a strong prohibition. | Use 'forbid' in formal contexts where strict rules or laws apply. It's not common in casual conversations. |
Frequently asked questions: Ban vs Forbid
What's the difference between Ban and Forbid?
Ban: To say something is not allowed. Forbid: To not allow something.
Which is more formal: Ban and Forbid?
Forbid is the most formal of these.
Which is more common: Ban and Forbid?
Ban is the most common in everyday English.
Are Ban and Forbid the same CEFR level?
Ban: B1, Forbid: B2 on the CEFR scale.
Can I use Ban and Forbid interchangeably?
Not always. Ban and Forbid are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.