Forbid: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in more formal or authoritative contexts to indicate an order or rule that something should not be done.

• The school forbids students from using mobile phones during class
• The company forbids smoking on its premises

Typically used in formal or legal documents to specify that something is not allowed, often with a focus on preventing harmful or illegal activities.

• The law prohibits smoking in public places
• The company policy prohibits sharing confidential information

Commonly used in both formal and informal settings to indicate that something is officially not allowed, often by law or regulation.

• The city has banned single-use plastic bags to reduce pollution
• They banned him from entering the club after the incident

Used in a more technical or legal context to indicate that something is not permitted, often due to rules, regulations, or guidelines.

• The referee disallowed the goal due to an offside
• The policy disallows reimbursement of personal expenses

Used when imposing a strict rule or law to stop something from happening.

• The school decided to forbid the use of mobile phones during class.
• Parents often forbid their children from staying out late.

Used when trying to convince someone not to do something without imposing a strict rule.

• She tried to discourage him from smoking by explaining the health risks.
• The coach did not want to discourage the young athlete by being overly critical.

Used when taking measures to stop something from happening, usually before it starts.

• Installing passwords can help prevent unauthorized access.
• Vaccinations aim to prevent the spread of diseases.

Used to describe stopping an action, event, or process immediately and forcefully.

• The construction was halted due to safety concerns.
• The police ordered the driver to halt the vehicle.