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

He forbids email after 5:30 p.m., mandates 90-minute midday breaks and pays wages 20% higher than the industry average.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 6, 2026

For that reason, the law forbids using the new funding simply to maintain existing levels.

From Los Angeles Times ● 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

The following year, Mexico forbids further American colonization of Texas and prohibits the importation of more slaves into the territory.

From "In the Shadow of Liberty" by Kenneth C. Davis