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forbid Synonyms
Another word for forbid
Choosing another word for forbid depends on context, so the 15 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
• verb (Context 1)
To refuse to allow something, or to order someone not to do something, officially or authoritatively.
Usage Example
"The university strictly forbids students to use electronic devices during final examinations."
Strongest
prohibit
ban
disallow
outlaw
Strong
proscribe
interdict
bar
veto
enjoin
• verb (Context 2)
To make an action or outcome impossible or prevent it from occurring (of a circumstance, condition, or constraint).
Usage Example
"Tightly scheduled work commitments and a limited budget preclude any extended travel this summer."
Strongest
preclude
prevent
rule out
Strong
hinder
impede
obstruct
Opposites of forbid
The opposite of forbid shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:
permit
allow
authorize
enable
facilitate
sanction
approve
endorse
• Nearby Words
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Forbid. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/forbid