Inhibit: meaning, definitions and examples
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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 |
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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.
|
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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "inhibit" in other languages:
🇵🇹 inibir
🇮🇳 रोकना
🇩🇪 hemmen
- verhindern
- unterdrücken
🇮🇩 menghambat
🇺🇦 гальмувати
- заважати
- стримувати
🇵🇱 hamować
🇯🇵 抑制する (yokusei suru)
🇫🇷 inhiber
- empêcher
- freiner
🇪🇸 inhibir
🇹🇷 engellemek
- durdurmak
- baskılamak
🇰🇷 억제하다
🇸🇦 يمنع
🇨🇿 inhibovat
🇸🇰 inhibovať
🇨🇳 抑制 (yìzhì)
🇸🇮 zavirati
🇮🇸 hamla
🇰🇿 тежелту
🇬🇪 შეკავება
🇦🇿 əngəlləmək
🇲🇽 inhibir