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.

But entering the store—our store—was now forbidden.

From Literature

He forbade them to touch them—“I have told you my will! Thwart it at your peril, for I am guided by the ancestral spirits.”

From Literature

They are not connected to the mains water and staying overnight is strictly forbidden.

From BBC

“I am doing this,” she told them, “because I would hope, God forbid, anything happens to me, that my community steps up to help my kids.”

From Salon

The distinction between permitted and forbidden means is the core of the rule of law.

From The Wall Street Journal