What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
forbid
Example
I forbid you from going out tonight. [forbid: verb]
Example
The sign forbids smoking in this area. [forbids: present tense]
prohibit
Example
The law prohibits the sale of alcohol to minors. [prohibits: present tense]
Example
Smoking is prohibited in all public areas. [prohibited: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Prohibit is more commonly used in formal or legal contexts, while forbid is more commonly used in everyday language. Both words are often used interchangeably in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between forbid and prohibit?
Prohibit is more formal and has a stronger connotation of legal or official restriction, while forbid can be used in a wider range of contexts and has a slightly less formal tone.
