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Forbidding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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forbidding

[fərˈbɪdɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in a strict or authoritative manner

Prohibiting something or making something not allowed; strict and controlling.

Synonyms

authoritative, prohibitive, restrictive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
forbidding

Used to describe something that appears threatening or unwelcoming. Often has a negative connotation.

  • The castle stood on the hill, with its dark and forbidding appearance.
  • Her voice had a forbidding tone that discouraged further questions.
prohibitive

Used to describe something that is excessively high or difficult, making it almost impossible to do or buy.

  • The cost of the designer handbag was prohibitive for most people.
  • The regulations were so prohibitive that many companies chose not to enter the market.
restrictive

Used to describe rules or conditions that limit what can be done or available options.

  • The school's restrictive dress code angered many students.
  • They moved to a less restrictive environment to allow more freedom of expression.
authoritative

Used to describe someone or something that is commanding and confident, often having the power or right to give orders and make decisions.

  • The teacher's authoritative voice quieted the entire classroom.
  • His report was considered the most authoritative source on the matter.

Examples of usage

  • The forbidding sign warned trespassers to stay away from the private property.
  • His forbidding tone made it clear that he was not to be disobeyed.
Context #2 | Verb

commanding someone not to do something

To command someone not to do something, to prohibit or ban.

Synonyms

ban, command, prohibit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
forbidding

Used to describe something that seems dangerous or unfriendly, often related to appearances or atmospheres.

  • The old mansion had a forbidding appearance that made everyone feel uneasy.
  • The teacher's forbidding tone quieted the noisy classroom.
prohibit

Similar to 'ban', it means to formally or officially stop something, often with a focus on rules or laws.

  • The new law prohibits the sale of alcohol after 10 PM.
  • The company prohibits personal phone calls during working hours.
ban

Refers to officially prohibiting something, typically by law or regulation. It is often used in formal or legal settings.

  • The city council imposed a ban on smoking in public places.
  • There is a ban on the use of plastic bags in the grocery store.
command

Indicates giving an authoritative order, often used in military or leadership contexts. It implies authority and control.

  • The general gave a command to advance.
  • Her presence commanded respect among her peers.

Examples of usage

  • The teacher forbade the students from using their phones during class.
  • The doctor forbade his patient from eating sugar due to health reasons.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, settings described as 'forbidding,' often create an atmosphere of tension or danger, enhancing the narrative's mood.
  • Characters might face 'forbidding' landscapes, like lonely mountains or dark forests, symbolizing inner conflicts.

Psychology

  • Research shows that environments perceived as 'forbidding' can trigger feelings of anxiety and fear in people.
  • Our brain naturally associates certain colors, like dark red or deep grey, with danger, influencing how we view a space.

Art

  • Many artists use 'forbidding' elements in their work to convey deeper meanings or evoke specific emotions in viewers.
  • In film, lighting and set design often create 'forbidding' atmospheres to build suspense, making audiences feel on edge.

Pop Culture

  • The term is often used in fairy tales to describe witches' castles or dragons' lairs, enhancing the sense of danger.
  • In video games, 'forbidding' environments are designed to challenge players, often serving as a backdrop for intense battles.

Origin of 'forbidding'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'forbidde,' which means to prevent or prohibit.
  • It is a combination of the prefix 'for-' meaning 'against' and 'bidden,' meaning 'to command'.

The word 'forbidding' comes from the Middle English 'forbeden', which means 'to forbid'. The concept of forbidding something has been present in human societies for centuries, as rules and restrictions are often necessary for maintaining order and safety. Throughout history, various laws and regulations have been put in place to forbid certain actions or behaviors in different cultures and civilizations.

See also: forbiddance, forbidden.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,211, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.