Inhibit Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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inhibit
[ɪnˈhɪbɪt ]
Definitions
to restrict
To prevent or slow down the progress or development of something. It can also refer to suppressing or restraining a behavior or action.
Synonyms
hinder, limit, restrain, restrict, suppress.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| inhibit |
Use 'inhibit' when referring to preventing or holding back a process, reaction, or function, often in a scientific or psychological context.
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| restrict |
Use 'restrict' when placing a ban or limit on someone or something, reducing freedom or preventing access.
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| restrain |
Use 'restrain' when talking about holding back someone or something physically or controlling actions or emotions, often used in a legal or physical context.
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| limit |
Use 'limit' to describe setting a boundary or maximum amount, often in a controlled or intentional way.
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| hinder |
Use 'hinder' when something slows down progress or makes it more difficult to achieve a goal.
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| suppress |
Use 'suppress' for stopping or prohibiting something, often used in contexts involving feelings, information, or uprisings, with potentially negative connotations.
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Examples of usage
- He tried to inhibit the growth of the bacteria by adding a disinfectant.
- The fear of failure inhibited her from taking risks.
- The medication inhibits the production of certain enzymes.
- The strict rules inhibit creativity in the workplace.
- His shyness inhibited him from speaking up in meetings.
to block
To hinder or prevent the action or function of something. It can refer to blocking a process or pathway.
Synonyms
block, hinder, impede, obstruct, thwart.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| inhibit |
Used when describing the act of restraining or holding back an action, feeling, or process, often in a psychological or scientific context.
|
| hinder |
Used when something slows down progress or makes it more difficult to achieve a goal. Often has a slight negative connotation.
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| impede |
Similar to 'hinder,' but often used in more formal or technical contexts to indicate an obstruction in progress or movement.
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| block |
Best used when something is completely stopped or physically prevented from moving forward. Often used in physical, technical, or metaphorical contexts.
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| obstruct |
Typically used to describe a physical barrier that blocks the way of something or someone. Can also be used metaphorically.
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| thwart |
Used when speaking about preventing someone's plans or efforts from being successful. Has a more direct and intentional connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The drug inhibits the action of certain neurotransmitters.
- The firewall inhibits unauthorized access to the network.
- Emotional stress can inhibit cognitive function.
- Smoking can inhibit lung function.
- High levels of caffeine can inhibit sleep.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- In psychology, to inhibit means to control or limit impulses, such as stopping yourself from saying something rude.
- Some mental health conditions can lead to reduced ability to inhibit thoughts or actions, affecting behavior.
- The brain's prefrontal cortex plays a key role in inhibiting unwanted behaviors, guiding decision-making.
Science
- In biochemistry, certain molecules are known to inhibit chemical reactions, acting like a brake in a car.
- Enzyme inhibitors are substances that reduce the activity of enzymes, often used in medications.
- During cellular respiration, some processes can be inhibited by various factors like temperature or pH levels.
Education
- Inhibiting learning can happen if a student feels anxious or unconfident in a classroom environment.
- Teachers often work to create supportive atmospheres that inhibit negative thoughts and promote engagement.
- Self-imposed inhibitors, like fear of failure, can hinder students' willingness to ask questions or participate.
Art & Literature
- In literature, characters may inhibit their emotions, leading to dramatic tension and complex storytelling.
- Artists sometimes inhibit their creativity due to fear of judgment, which can limit their artistic expression.
- The concept of inhibition is often explored in poetry, reflecting the struggle between restraint and desire.
Origin of 'inhibit'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'inhibit' comes from the Latin 'inhibere,' which means to hold back or restrain.
- It has roots in the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not,' combined with 'habere' meaning 'to have,' which emphasizes stopping or holding onto.
- The term entered the English language in the early 17th century, meaning to restrain or prevent.
The word 'inhibit' comes from the Latin word 'inhibere', which means 'to hold in'. It was first used in English in the mid-15th century. The concept of inhibition has been studied in various fields such as psychology, biology, and chemistry. Inhibition plays a crucial role in regulating processes and behaviors in living organisms.
See also: inhibition, inhibitor, inhibitory, uninhibited, uninhibitedly, uninhibitedness.