Spanish Conversation · Level 93
60 words
Spanish word
prohibir
Pronunciation
IPA/pɾoiˈβiɾ/
Meaning
- verbforbid
Example
Aquí se prohíbe fumar.
Smoking is forbidden here.
More examples
La ley prohíbe vender alcohol a menores.
The law forbids selling alcohol to minors.
Core concept
A crossed-out activity icon inside a red circle.
Common phrases
prohibir fumar
forbid smoking
prohibir el paso
forbid passage
prohibir la entrada
forbid entry
Similar words
impedir: Stops an action from occurring by creating an obstacle or interference.
restringir: Sets boundaries on how much, how often, or where something may happen.
vetar: Vetoes a measure or proposal so it cannot become law or take effect.
Definition in Spanish
Negar permiso o impedir que se haga algo, frecuentemente por una autoridad, norma o regla.
Word origin
Derived from Latin prohibēre (pro- 'in front' + habēre 'to have/hold'), originally 'to hold back', it evolved into Spanish prohibir to express an authority-based ban.
Usage tips
- Prohibir carries a formal, authoritative tone, so for everyday or softer refusals Spanish speakers usually use no permitir or no dejar instead of prohibir.
Other meanings
- enjoinverb
Related words
- prohibiciónprohibitionnoun
- prohibidoprohibitedadjective
- prohibitivoprohibitiveadjective