The English language is filled with powerful verbs that carry strong implications, and one such word is ‘prohibit.’ This word frequently appears in legal contexts, formal rules, public signage, and day-to-day communication. Understanding the English meaning of ‘prohibit’ is essential for both native speakers and learners of English. Its usage goes beyond simply saying no. It implies an authoritative or legal restriction on a specific action or behavior, making it a valuable word for formal writing and conversation. To understand it fully, we must explore its meaning, origin, grammar usage, and related expressions.
Definition of ‘Prohibit’
Toprohibitsomething means to formally or officially stop it from happening. It refers to a command or law that prevents a particular activity from being carried out. The term is typically used in formal or official contexts such as law, policy, or rules and regulations.
Here is a basic definition:
- Prohibit (verb): to forbid or disallow something, especially by law or official rule.
Example sentence: The schoolprohibitsstudents from using mobile phones during class hours.
Origin and Etymology
The word prohibit comes from the Latin wordprohibere, which is a combination ofpro-meaning before andhaberemeaning to hold. Literally, it means to hold in front, or to prevent. Over time, it evolved into its current English form, which conveys the idea of stopping or forbidding an action.
Grammatical Usage
Prohibit is a regular verb. Its common verb forms include:
- Base form: prohibit
- Third person singular: prohibits
- Past tense: prohibited
- Present participle: prohibiting
The word is often followed by the prepositionfromwhen used in a sentence, especially when referencing the person or entity being restricted. Here are a few examples:
- They wereprohibited fromentering the restricted area.
- The lawprohibitssmoking in public buildings.
Difference Between ‘Prohibit’ and Similar Words
There are several words that are similar to ‘prohibit,’ but they carry slightly different meanings or levels of formality.
1. Forbid
Forbid is often used in personal or informal contexts, while prohibit tends to be more formal or legal.
- My parentsforbidme from staying out late.
- The city councilprohibitedconstruction in the park area.
2. Ban
Ban is stronger and more permanent than prohibit in many cases. It usually refers to a wide or public restriction.
- The governmentbannedplastic bags.
- The museumprohibitsflash photography.
3. Restrict
Restrict implies limiting or controlling rather than completely forbidding.
- The companyrestrictsaccess to sensitive data.
- The policyprohibitsthe use of personal devices at work.
Common Contexts Where Prohibit Is Used
The word ‘prohibit’ is widely used in different fields and situations. Here are some of the most common areas where the term appears:
1. Legal and Governmental Contexts
In law, ‘prohibit’ is frequently used to describe acts that are not allowed under legal statutes or regulations. Laws that prohibit certain actions often carry penalties for violations.
- Example: The lawprohibitsdriving without a valid license.
2. Educational Institutions
Schools and universities use the word prohibit in codes of conduct, outlining what students are not allowed to do.
- Example: The universityprohibitsplagiarism in all academic work.
3. Workplace Rules
Organizations may issue policies that prohibit certain behaviors in the interest of safety, productivity, or company culture.
- Example: The companyprohibitsemployees from discussing confidential information with outsiders.
4. Public Signage
Signs using the word prohibit are often found in public places like parks, train stations, and airports.
- Example: No Smoking: This area is strictly prohibited.
Why Use the Word Prohibit?
Using the word prohibit instead of simpler words like stop or not allow can add clarity and seriousness to your language. It suggests that a rule or authority is involved and that the consequences for disobedience could be significant.
Here are some advantages of using the word:
- It conveys a strong, formal tone.
- It is universally understood in legal and professional settings.
- It clearly communicates that something is not just discouraged, but forbidden.
Idiomatic and Extended Use
Sometimes, prohibit can be used in extended or metaphorical ways to express restriction in a non-legal sense:
- Fear prohibited her from speaking her mind.
- Cultural norms often prohibit certain behaviors in public.
In such cases, prohibit implies an internal or societal rule, not necessarily a written one.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Forbid
- Ban
- Disallow
- Prevent
- Outlaw
Antonyms:
- Allow
- Permit
- Authorize
- Approve
Tips for Using ‘Prohibit’ Effectively
- Use prohibit in formal writing such as academic papers, policy documents, and official announcements.
- Pair it with from when specifying the subject being restricted.
- Avoid overusing it in casual conversation where not allowed or forbid might be more natural.
The English meaning of ‘prohibit’ centers on the idea of forbidding an action through authority, law, or official rules. It is a versatile verb with strong formal connotations, making it especially useful in legal, academic, and professional settings. Whether you’re writing policies, reading legal documents, or understanding public rules, recognizing and correctly using the word prohibit will improve both your comprehension and communication. As with any advanced English vocabulary, the key to mastery lies in context and usage, so pay close attention to how prohibit is applied in different scenarios to enrich your English fluency.