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 agreement releases all survivors from any prior nondisclosure agreements and forbids any future such secrecy agreements, and prohibits any adult-to-minor digital communications in the archdiocese.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 29, 2026

And eBay forbids fulfilling orders by purchasing items elsewhere at the time of sale and shipping them directly to customers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 25, 2026

The Constitution forbids racial discrimination in jury selection.

From Slate • Jun. 17, 2026

Of course, these are only paper profits, and the agreement the U.S. reached with Intel forbids the government from selling shares before Aug. 27.

From Barron's • May 8, 2026

Therefore the Supernatural World Congress forbids the Bureau from ever seeking out the key.

From "Amari and the Night Brothers" by B.B. Alston