Enjoin: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in formal or legal settings, often referring to an authoritative or urgent instruction or prohibition. This word is commonly used in legal documents or formal instructions.

• The court enjoined the company from disclosing confidential information.
• They were enjoined to maintain silence during the ceremony.

Can be used in various settings, from formal to everyday life, to indicate a request or demand that must be followed. It can sometimes have a negative connotation if applied forcefully.

• The judge ordered the defendant to pay a fine.
• She ordered her children to clean their rooms.

Often used in military settings or situations requiring authority. It implies an authoritative order that must be followed.

• The captain commanded the troops to advance.
• She commanded him to stay back and wait.

Used in professional or instructional settings where guidance or supervision is required. It is more neutral compared to 'command'.

• The manager directed the team to complete the project by Friday.
• He directed us to the main office.

This word is best used in formal or legal contexts. It typically means to command or instruct someone to do something, often through an authoritative directive or court order.

• The court enjoined the company from proceeding with its merger.
• He was enjoined by his doctor to take his medication regularly.

Often used to express strong disapproval or prohibition. It is suitable in both formal and informal settings but tends to carry a personal or authoritative tone.

• He forbade his children from going out after dark.
• The rules forbid employees from using company computers for personal use.

This word is commonly used in everyday language to refer to an official prohibition on something. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• The government decided to ban smoking in public places.
• They banned mobile phones in the classroom.

This word is ideal for formal contexts, such as legal or official regulations. It also conveys an authoritative command and is often used in a legal sense.

• The law prohibits the sale of alcohol to minors.
• Company policy prohibits the use of personal email accounts for business purposes.