What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prohibit
Example
Smoking is strictly prohibited in this area. [prohibited: verb]
Example
The law prohibits the sale of alcohol to minors. [prohibits: present tense]
restrict
Example
The company restricts access to sensitive information to authorized personnel only. [restricts: present tense]
Example
The government has restricted travel to certain countries due to safety concerns. [restricted: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Restrict is more commonly used than prohibit in everyday language. Restrict is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while prohibit is less common and usually reserved for more formal or legal situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prohibit and restrict?
While prohibit is typically associated with a formal and authoritative tone, restrict is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
