説明中心

taboo

[təˈbuː]

taboo Definition

  • 1a social or religious custom prohibiting or forbidding discussion of a particular practice or forbidding association with a particular person, place, or thing
  • 2a practice that is prohibited or restricted by social or religious custom

Using taboo: Examples

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

  • Example

    In some cultures, it is taboo to talk about death.

  • Example

    Eating pork is taboo in some religions.

  • Example

    The topic of sex was considered taboo in the past.

  • Example

    It's taboo to wear shoes inside the temple.

taboo Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using taboo

  • to do something that is considered forbidden or prohibited by social or religious custom

    Example

    She broke a taboo by speaking out against the government.

  • a subject that is considered inappropriate or offensive to discuss

    Example

    Mental health used to be a taboo topic, but now more people are speaking openly about it.

  • language that is considered inappropriate or offensive to use in certain contexts

    Example

    Using taboo language in a professional setting can be seen as unprofessional and disrespectful.

Phrases with taboo

  • a topic that is considered inappropriate or offensive to discuss

    Example

    Politics and religion are often considered taboo subjects at dinner parties.

  • taboo word

    a word that is considered inappropriate or offensive to use in certain contexts

    Example

    There are many taboo words in different cultures, and it's important to be aware of them when traveling.

  • a behavior that is considered inappropriate or unacceptable in a particular culture or society

    Example

    In some countries, public displays of affection are considered taboo behavior.

Origins of taboo

from Tongan 'tapu', meaning 'set apart, forbidden'

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Summary: taboo in Brief

The term 'taboo' [təˈbuː] refers to a social or religious custom that prohibits or restricts discussion or association with a particular practice, person, place, or thing. It can also refer to a practice that is prohibited or restricted by social or religious custom. Examples include not talking about death in some cultures, or not eating pork in some religions. Phrases like 'taboo subject' and 'taboo behavior' denote topics or behaviors that are considered inappropriate or unacceptable. Idioms like 'break a taboo' describe doing something that is considered forbidden.

How do native speakers use this expression?