What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
embargo
Example
The government imposed an embargo on trade with the neighboring country. [embargo: noun]
Example
The company faced an embargo on their products due to safety concerns. [embargo: verb]
prohibition
Example
During the 1920s, the United States had a prohibition on the sale and consumption of alcohol. [prohibition: noun]
Example
The new law prohibits smoking in public places. [prohibit: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Prohibition is a more commonly used term than embargo in everyday language, particularly in the context of alcohol or drug use. However, embargo is more commonly used in the context of international trade or commerce.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between embargo and prohibition?
Both embargo and prohibition are formal terms that are often used in legal or political contexts. However, embargo is more commonly used in the context of international relations, while prohibition is more commonly used in the context of social or moral issues.
