forbids

VERB

outlaw, prohibit an action

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ban block cancel censor deny deprive disallow enjoin exclude freeze halt hinder impede inhibit oppose preclude prevent proscribe restrain restrict rule out stop

STRONG

check debar embargo forestall forfend interdict nix obstruct obviate spike stymie taboo veto withhold

WEAK

declare illegal hold up lock up put the chill on say no shut down shut out

Antonyms

STRONGEST

add admit advance aid allow approve assist continue encourage facilitate forward free go help include let go permit push release support welcome

WEAK

authorize sanction

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

forbids

“The key issue is whether the law truly forbids us from pursuing democratic transition and whether it really defends the Communist Party’s perpetual rule,” Chow, who represented herself, said in her closing statement.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 21, 2026

A super-injunction is a court-mandated gagging order that forbids news outlets from reporting private or sensitive information.

From BBC ● Jul. 29, 2026

Some of those strikes could violate international law, which forbids attacking civilian infrastructure.

From Slate ● Jul. 20, 2026

Washington has vehemently opposed Tehran's desire to charge tolls in the strait, which international law generally forbids.

From Barron's ● Jul. 14, 2026

“Nothing in the prophecy forbids you to come,” said Luxa.

From "Gregor the Overlander" by Suzanne Collins