Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Prohibited Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🚫
Add to dictionary

prohibited

[prəˈhɪbɪtɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in a legal context

officially forbidden by law, rule, or other authority

Synonyms

banned, forbidden, illegal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
prohibited

This entry seems to be a duplicate and has the same context as the first 'prohibited' entry.

  • This content is redundant as it repeats the same information as the first 'prohibited' entry.
forbidden

Often used in a moral, personal, or less formal context to indicate that something is not allowed. It can also imply a sense of something being off-limits or taboo.

  • Entering the forest at night is forbidden.
  • It was a forbidden love.
banned

Typically used to describe something that is not allowed, often by law or official decree. It can also carry a more serious or strict connotation.

  • The movie was banned in several countries due to its controversial content.
  • Single-use plastic bags are banned in many regions to reduce environmental impact.
illegal

Used in legal contexts to indicate that something is against the law. It carries a strong connotation and can imply potential consequences or penalties.

  • Selling counterfeit goods is illegal.
  • It is illegal to drive without a valid license.

Examples of usage

  • Smoking is prohibited in this area.
  • Photography is strictly prohibited inside the museum.
Context #2 | Verb

in a social context

formally forbid (something) by law, rule, or other authority

Synonyms

ban, bar, forbid.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
prohibited

Use 'prohibited' when referring to formal rules or laws that explicitly do not allow something.

  • Smoking is prohibited in this area
  • The new policy prohibits the use of cellphones during work hours
ban

Use 'ban' when referring to an official or legal order that stops something from being done or used. This word often implies a broader or more permanent restriction.

  • The government decided to ban all imports of endangered species
  • There is a ban on plastic bags in many cities
bar

Use 'bar' when referring to preventing entry or access to a place, group, or activity. Often implies physical prevention or being stopped at a checkpoint.

  • He was barred from entering the club
  • The security system bars unauthorized users from accessing the building
forbid

Use 'forbid' when referring to someone in authority not allowing someone to do something. It is less formal than 'prohibited' and can be used in everyday situations.

  • Her parents forbid her from going out late at night
  • The school forbids students to use phones during class

Examples of usage

  • The sign clearly prohibits parking on the grass.
  • The new law prohibits the sale of alcohol to minors.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Law

  • Many behaviors and actions are prohibited by law to maintain societal order, like stealing or driving under the influence.
  • Prohibition in the early 20th century in the U.S. made the production and sale of alcohol illegal, leading to both increased crime and underground movements.
  • Certain items, such as dangerous drugs or weapons, are legally prohibited to protect public safety.

Culture

  • Cultural taboos often lead to the prohibition of certain practices, like certain foods or rituals that are not accepted within a society.
  • In some religions, there are prohibitions against specific behaviors, like consuming pork in Islam or Judaism.
  • Art and literature can challenge prohibitions, leading to censorship and debates about freedom of expression.

Psychology

  • The concept of prohibition can evoke a sense of rebellion; people often want to do things that are banned, leading to the 'forbidden fruit' effect.
  • Understanding what is prohibited affects decision-making, as people may weigh risks differently based on perceived consequences.
  • When faced with prohibited actions, individuals often assess their personal and societal values to determine their responses.

History

  • Throughout history, various groups, including governments and churches, have imposed prohibitions to control societal behavior and cultural practices.
  • In ancient Rome, certain religious practices were prohibited for non-citizens, reflecting power dynamics of inclusion and exclusion.
  • Prohibitions can sometimes lead to revolutions, as individuals and communities rally against restrictive laws or norms, such as the French Revolution.

Origin of 'prohibited'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'prohibere', meaning 'to hold back'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, initially used in a legal context.
  • Many languages share this root, including Spanish 'prohibido' and French 'interdit', showing a common understanding of restrictions.

The word 'prohibited' comes from the Latin word 'prohibere', which means 'to keep off, hinder'. The concept of prohibiting certain actions or behaviors has been present in societies throughout history as a way to maintain order and enforce rules. Laws and regulations are often put in place to prohibit activities that are deemed harmful or dangerous to individuals or society as a whole.

See also: prohibit, prohibition, prohibitive, prohibitory.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,884, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.