formal 3K

Embargo

UK //ɪmˈbɑːɡəʊ// US //ɛmˈbɑrɡoʊ// Pronunciation

Definition

A government order preventing trade with a specific country.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A law that stops trade with a country.

Examples

• The government imposed an embargo on oil imports to reduce dependence.
• After the embargo was announced, the economy suffered significantly.
• Countries often use an embargo to punish others for political actions.
• The United States lifted the embargo against the nation after negotiations.
• An embargo can lead to shortages of essential goods for the population.

Usage notes

Used in political and economic contexts. Not common in everyday conversation. Appropriate in news or formal discussions about trade restrictions.

Grammar pattern

embargo + object

Memory hint

Remember 'embargo' like 'bargo' in a bar where you can't buy drinks.

Collocations

• impose an embargo
• lift an embargo
• declare an embargo
• economic embargo
• trade embargo

Synonyms

• ban
• prohibition
• restriction
• blockade
• proscription

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'sanction' - not all sanctions are embargoes.
• Using in an informal context - it's a formal term.