Language provides a structured way to express commands, restrictions, permissions, and freedoms. One such word that clearly sets boundaries is prohibit. This word plays a significant role in both legal and everyday communication. Understanding the verb form of prohibit and how it is used in different grammatical and practical contexts is essential for clear, effective communication. Whether in formal writing or conversational English, using the correct form of prohibit can help convey strong and unambiguous messages.
Definition and Function of Prohibit”
The word prohibit is a verb. It means to formally forbid something by law, rule, or other authority. In many cases, it reflects restriction, prevention, or disapproval of certain actions. Prohibit is often used when there is a regulation or authoritative order involved.
For example
- The schoolprohibitsthe use of mobile phones during class.
- Smoking isprohibitedin public buildings.
In both sentences, prohibit functions as a verb and implies that something is not allowed. The authority in these cases could be institutional (school), governmental (law), or even social (custom).
Different Verb Forms of Prohibit
As a verb, prohibit can appear in various forms depending on tense and sentence structure. Here are the common forms used in English grammar
- Base formprohibit
- Third person singularprohibits
- Past simpleprohibited
- Present participle/gerundprohibiting
- Past participleprohibited
Examples in Sentences
To further understand how prohibit works as a verb, let’s explore how each form appears in context
- Present SimpleThe policyprohibitslate submissions.
- Past SimpleThe governmentprohibitedgatherings during the lockdown.
- Present ContinuousThe law isprohibitingunauthorized access to the premises.
- Present PerfectThey haveprohibitedall outside food in the theater.
Synonyms and Alternatives to Prohibit
Although prohibit is clear and formal, other verbs can be used depending on the context and tone. Some synonyms of prohibit include
- Forbid– slightly less formal, but similar in meaning. Example They forbade students from leaving early.
- Ban– often used in law, media, and policy. Example The city banned plastic bags.
- Disallow– implies denial of permission. Example The app disallows editing after submission.
- Prevent– used when referring to stopping an action. Example They installed gates to prevent entry.
Each of these verbs has slightly different connotations, but they are often used in similar contexts where restrictions or rules are being communicated.
Usage in Legal and Formal Contexts
Prohibit is frequently found in legal, academic, and regulatory documents. It carries a tone of authority and formality. For instance
- The Constitutionprohibitscruel and unusual punishment.
- Company policyprohibitsthe use of personal devices in secure areas.
In such examples, prohibit is not just a suggestion but a formal command. Its use in legal and institutional writing underlines its seriousness.
Difference Between Prohibit and Prevent
Though similar, prohibit and prevent are not interchangeable in every case. Here is a breakdown of their key differences
- Prohibitmeans to declare something forbidden. It implies an official rule or law.
- Preventmeans to stop something from happening. It focuses on the result rather than the rule.
Examples
- The lawprohibitsalcohol consumption in public. (Rule-based)
- The barrierpreventsvehicles from entering. (Physically stops)
Understanding this distinction helps in choosing the right verb for a specific context.
Common Collocations with Prohibit
Some phrases naturally occur with prohibit. These collocations make your sentences sound more natural and native-like
- Prohibit by lawThese substances are prohibited by law.
- Strictly prohibitThe facility strictly prohibits photography.
- Prohibit accessThe area is restricted and prohibits access to the public.
- Prohibit useThe software prohibits use without a license.
Negative and Passive Constructions
Prohibit is often used in negative or passive constructions to indicate that someone is not allowed to do something. Passive structures are common in formal writing and speech.
Examples
- PassiveStudents areprohibitedfrom entering the staff room.
- NegativeThe systemdoes not prohibitmultiple logins.
In passive constructions, the focus shifts from the subject enforcing the rule to the object being affected by the rule, which is often preferable in official communication.
Derivatives and Related Words
In addition to its verb form, prohibit has several related words that appear in different grammatical roles
- Prohibition(noun) – Theprohibitionof alcohol led to illegal trade.
- Prohibitive(adjective) – The cost of tuition isprohibitivefor many families.
- Prohibited(adjective/past participle) – Smoking isprohibitedhere.
These variations allow you to use the core meaning of prohibit across different sentence types and contexts.
Tips for Using Prohibit Correctly
- Use prohibit when referring to formal rules, laws, or instructions.
- Ensure subject-verb agreement He prohibits, not He prohibit.
- In passive form, use be + prohibited is prohibited, was prohibited, etc.
- Do not confuse with prevent unless focusing on outcome rather than rule.
In summary, prohibit is a powerful and formal verb that clearly communicates restriction or denial, usually by some authority. Its verb forms such as prohibits, prohibited, and prohibiting are essential in crafting grammatically correct and meaningful sentences. Whether you are writing a legal document, an academic report, or simply making rules clear in conversation, understanding how to properly use the verb form of prohibit will enhance your language precision and effectiveness. By practicing this verb in different contexts and tenses, you’ll gain the confidence to express rules and boundaries clearly and appropriately.