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Showing results for forbid.
Definitions

forbid

[fer-bid, fawr-] / fərˈbɪd, fɔr- /
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.

Rules of Professional Conduct expressly forbid lawyers from communicating with a judge “unless authorized to do so by law or court order,” which he was not.

From Slate • Mar. 11, 2026

This stuff is less expensive than an NFL game, and a far safer bet than another pricey alien movie, or, heaven forbid, “The Irishman Part II.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 26, 2026

Few people would want to look for a new place in their 70s or, God forbid, 80s.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 12, 2026

Rules that forbid insider trading place special restrictions on investors who serve on company boards, receive confidential information, or hold more than 10% of its stock.

From Barron's • Jan. 2, 2026

For more about forbid and prohibit, see pages 114 and 116.

From "Woe Is I" by Patricia T. O'Conner