Showing results for forbids. Search instead for verbids.

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

Doctrine forbids Jehovah's Witnesses, as Jones was then, from receiving blood transfusions in almost all circumstances.

From BBC • Apr. 12, 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

Dunbar is on an elective residency visa, which forbids her from working while she’s there, so she has to rely on passive income.

From Slate • Feb. 1, 2026

A certain island has a law that forbids anyone from removing its fruit.

From "The Bad Beginning" by Lemony Snicket