forbid

[fərˈbɪd]

forbid Definition

  • 1refuse to allow (something)
  • 2prohibit (someone) from doing something
  • 3make impossible

Using forbid: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "forbid" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The teacher forbids the use of cellphones in class.

  • Example

    The law forbids smoking in public places.

  • Example

    I forbid you to leave the house after midnight.

  • Example

    The storm forbids us from going outside.

forbid Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for forbid

Antonyms for forbid

Idioms Using forbid

  • prevent a marriage from taking place by publicly announcing reasons why it should not happen

    Example

    The bride's family tried to forbid the banns, but the wedding still took place.

  • refuse entry to someone

    Example

    The bouncer was instructed to forbid the door to anyone who didn't have a valid ID.

  • used to express strong disapproval or rejection of an idea

    Example

    Forbid the thought that we would ever have to go through another pandemic like this.

Phrases with forbid

  • something that is desired but is not allowed

    Example

    She knew that dating her boss was a forbidden fruit, but she couldn't resist.

  • a romantic relationship that is not allowed or approved by society or authority

    Example

    Their love was a forbidden love because they were from different religions.

  • an area that is off-limits or restricted

    Example

    The military base is a forbidden territory for civilians.

Origins of forbid

from Old English 'forbeodan', meaning 'forbid, prohibit'

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Summary: forbid in Brief

The verb 'forbid' [fərˈbɪd] means to refuse to allow or prohibit something, or make it impossible. It can be used in various contexts, such as rules and laws, personal relationships, and natural events. Examples include 'The teacher forbids the use of cellphones in class.' and 'The storm forbids us from going outside.' 'Forbidden' extends into phrases like 'forbidden fruit,' and idioms like 'forbid the banns,' referring to preventing a marriage from happening.

How do native speakers use this expression?