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.

The language of the law forbids any kind of recycling that would produce significant amounts of hazardous waste.

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2026

It forbids therapists from insisting on spreading their personal views through confidential, sensitive conversations with trusting minors happening behind closed doors.

From Slate • Apr. 3, 2026

Just this once, I made an exception to the Journal rule that forbids showing sources advance copy and sent the draft to Greenspan’s spokesman for a gut check.

From Barron's • Feb. 27, 2026

Kramer is accused of violating the Martin Act, which forbids company insiders from trading stock while possessing material non-public information, James said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 15, 2026

Orion was under serious development in the United States until the signing of the international treaty that forbids the detonation of nuclear weapons in space.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan