prohibit
Definitions
To formally forbid something by law, rule, or authority.
（以法律、规则或权力）禁止，明令不准。
To prevent or make impossible.
阻止，使不可能。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedpro- (in front of) + hibit (hold) = hold something in front of someone so they can't get past — to forbid. A 'no parking' sign is, in effect, a barrier held in your way. It's the most formal, official way to say 'ban.'
Root hibit still carries 6 more wordsUsage Guide
Note the grammar: 'prohibit someone from doing something' (with from + -ing), never 'prohibit someone to do.' prohibit is more formal than ban or forbid and dominates legal and official writing: prohibited by law, strictly prohibited.
Example Sentences
- 1.
The law prohibits smoking in all public buildings.
- 2.
Company policy prohibits employees from accepting gifts.
- 3.
Bad weather prohibited any attempt to reach the summit.
Easily Confused
prohibit vs forbid vs ban — All three mean 'not allow,' but prohibit is the most formal and impersonal (laws and rules prohibit). forbid is more personal and direct (a parent forbids a child). ban is about an official, often blanket, removal (ban a book, ban a player). Test: a statute prohibits; a person forbids; an authority bans.