What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
taboo
Example
In some cultures, eating pork is considered taboo. [taboo: noun]
Example
It's taboo to talk about politics at the dinner table. [taboo: adjective]
forbidden
Example
Smoking is forbidden in this area. [forbidden: adjective]
Example
The students were forbidden from entering the laboratory without supervision. [forbidden: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Forbidden is more commonly used than taboo in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and situations. Taboo is less common and is usually reserved for more specific cultural or societal practices.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between taboo and forbidden?
Both taboo and forbidden are formal words that are typically used in serious or professional contexts. However, forbidden is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while taboo is more commonly used in academic or anthropological settings.
