Inhibit: meaning, definitions and examples

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inhibit

[ɪnˈhɪbɪt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

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. The presence of this chemical can inhibit the growth of bacteria His fear of failure may inhibit him from trying new things
restrict	Use 'restrict' when placing a ban or limit on someone or something, reducing freedom or preventing access. The new rules will restrict movement within the quarantine zone The school restricts students from using mobile phones during class
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. Security had to restrain the man who was trying to enter the building She could barely restrain her anger
limit	Use 'limit' to describe setting a boundary or maximum amount, often in a controlled or intentional way. The company will limit the number of attendees to ensure everyone's safety You should limit your screen time for better sleep
hinder	Use 'hinder' when something slows down progress or makes it more difficult to achieve a goal. The heavy snowfalls hindered our journey Lack of resources hinders the development of the project
suppress	Use 'suppress' for stopping or prohibiting something, often used in contexts involving feelings, information, or uprisings, with potentially negative connotations. The government tried to suppress the rebellion She struggled to suppress her laughter during the meeting

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.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

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. Her shyness inhibits her ability to speak in public. The medication inhibits the growth of bacteria.
hinder	Used when something slows down progress or makes it more difficult to achieve a goal. Often has a slight negative connotation. Heavy traffic can hinder emergency vehicles. His lack of experience hindered the project's success.
impede	Similar to 'hinder,' but often used in more formal or technical contexts to indicate an obstruction in progress or movement. The soldiers used barricades to impede the enemy's advance. Poor infrastructure can impede economic growth.
block	Best used when something is completely stopped or physically prevented from moving forward. Often used in physical, technical, or metaphorical contexts. A fallen tree blocked the road. The software blocks unauthorized access.
obstruct	Typically used to describe a physical barrier that blocks the way of something or someone. Can also be used metaphorically. The large tree obstructs the view from the window. He was arrested for attempting to obstruct justice.
thwart	Used when speaking about preventing someone's plans or efforts from being successful. Has a more direct and intentional connotation. The hero's actions thwarted the villain's plan. The weather thwarted their attempt to climb the mountain.

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

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,468 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8465 zoning
8466 goat
8467 rocket
8468 inhibit
8469 dialect
8470 parade
8471 exam
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