B2verb formal 5K

Prohibit

🇬🇧 UK //prəˈhɪbɪt// 🇺🇸 US //prəˈhɪbɪt//

Meaning of Prohibit

To formally refuse to allow something.

In simple words: To not allow something.

Prohibit in a sentence

• The law will prohibit the use of mobile phones while driving.
• Schools often prohibit students from wearing hats indoors.
• Many countries prohibit smoking in public places.
• The company prohibited all employees from accessing social media during work hours.
• Some practices are prohibited by health regulations.

How to use Prohibit

Use 'prohibit' in formal contexts such as laws or regulations. It is often more severe than 'forbid'.

Grammar pattern

prohibit + object

Memory hint

Think of 'pro' meaning professional and 'hibit' sounds like habit - professionals prohibit bad habits.

Related words

Collocations with Prohibit

• prohibit access
• prohibit use
• prohibit behavior

Synonyms for Prohibit

• forbid
• ban
• restrict
• outlaw
• prevent

Opposites of Prohibit

• allow
• permit
• enable

Common mistakes with Prohibit

• Confused with 'ban' - 'prohibit' is often used in formal settings.
• Using 'prohibit' with an infinitive instead of a gerund (e.g. 'prohibit smoking' not 'prohibit to smoke').

Frequently asked questions about Prohibit

What does Prohibit mean?

To not allow something.

What is the definition of Prohibit?

To formally refuse to allow something.

How do you use Prohibit in a sentence?

The law will prohibit the use of mobile phones while driving.

Can you give another example of Prohibit?

Schools often prohibit students from wearing hats indoors.

What are synonyms for Prohibit?

Common alternatives include forbid, ban, restrict, outlaw, prevent.

What is the opposite of Prohibit?

Opposite meanings include allow, permit, enable.

What words go with Prohibit?

It commonly pairs with prohibit access, prohibit use, prohibit behavior.

What are common mistakes when using Prohibit?

Confused with 'ban' - 'prohibit' is often used in formal settings. Using 'prohibit' with an infinitive instead of a gerund (e.g. 'prohibit smoking' not 'prohibit to smoke').

How do you pronounce Prohibit?

US: //prəˈhɪbɪt//, UK: //prəˈhɪbɪt//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Prohibit formal or informal?

"Prohibit" is formal, so it fits professional, business, or academic conversations.

When should I use Prohibit?

Use 'prohibit' in formal contexts such as laws or regulations. It is often more severe than 'forbid'.

What CEFR level is Prohibit?

"Prohibit" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.