Inhibit: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.