Prohibitory: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in a formal or legal setting to describe something that is officially forbidden or restricted by a rule or law.

• The city council issued a prohibitory order against the use of plastic bags.
• The prohibitory clause in the contract prevents employees from sharing confidential information.

Often used in a more general sense to indicate that something is not allowed or is strongly discouraged. Can also have a more personal or authoritarian connotation.

• The teacher is forbidding students from talking during the test.
• The sign says 'No trespassing,' forbidding anyone from entering the private property.

Typically used when an authority or group formally prohibits something, often in a public or governmental context.

• The government is considering banning single-use plastics to help the environment.
• The school is banning the use of mobile phones during class hours.

Used to describe policies or rules that impose limitations, often for safety or control purposes. It usually has a less severe implication than 'banning' or 'prohibitory.'

• The new restrictive policies on travel have made it difficult for many people to visit their families.
• The company has introduced restrictive guidelines for internet usage during work hours.

This word is used when something is explicitly forbidden by a rule, law, or regulation.

• The prohibitory sign marked 'No Entry' made it clear that the area was off-limits.
• Due to the prohibitory decree, selling alcohol after midnight is not allowed.

This word is used when referring to actions or measures taken to stop something from happening, particularly in a positive or health-related context.

• Wearing sunscreen is a preventive measure against skin cancer.
• Vaccination is a preventive strategy for many infectious diseases.

This word is used when something is intended to discourage or prevent someone from doing something. It often implies a negative consequence.

• The heavy fines serve as a deterrent to illegal parking.
• Security cameras act as a deterrent to potential thieves.

This word is used to describe something that limits or controls freedom or actions, often with a negative connotation.

• The restrictive rules in the workplace made employees feel demotivated.
• Her parents were very restrictive about her going out at night.