Basic Details
Word: Forbid
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To tell someone they cannot do something; to prohibit.
Synonyms: Prohibit, ban, restrict
Antonyms: Allow, permit, approve
Idioms and Phrases
- The forbidden fruit: Something that is tempting but not allowed. Example: "The kids were curious about the forbidden fruit of the neighbours' garden."
- Forbidding atmosphere: A situation or environment that seems threatening or hostile. Example: "The dark clouds created a forbidding atmosphere before the storm."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The school forbids students from using mobile phones during class.
Example 2: Many parents forbid their children from watching scary movies.
Example 3: The sign on the fence forbids anyone from entering the property without permission.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "forbid" comes from the Old English word "forbidan," which means to prohibit or to deny? This reflects its long history as a word that has been used to indicate restriction.
Famous Quote
"The law is not a forbidding force, but a protecting force; lest society turn on itself." - John O'Donohue
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "forbid" mean?
a) To tell someone they can do something
b) To tell someone they cannot do something
c) To encourage someone to do something
d) To ignore someone's request
Answer: b) To tell someone they cannot do something
2. Which of these is a synonym of "forbid"?
a) Permit
b) Allow
c) Ban
d) Accept
Answer: c) Ban
3. Which word is an antonym of "forbid"?
a) Prohibit
b) Allow
c) Restrict
d) Deny
Answer: b) Allow
4. Which sentence uses "forbid" correctly?
a) I forbid you to eat all the cookies!
b) I forbid you to share the story with anyone.
c) You must forbid this fun game!
d) They forbid us to play outside.
Answer: a) I forbid you to eat all the cookies!
5. What does the idiom "forbidden fruit" refer to?
a) A fruit that is allowed to eat
b) A fruit that is very expensive
c) Something tempting that one cannot have
d) A fruit that is in season
Answer: c) Something tempting that one cannot have
