Synonyms for

Ban

Verb / bæn / Another word for ban — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To prohibit someone or something from doing or being something

Synonyms & similar words

bachelorofartsinnursing castout blackball forbiddance ban ostracize banning forbidding shun ostracise banish censor prohibition proscription prohibit forbid outlaw proscribe bar disallow veto embargo restrict exclude censor blacklist suppress stop prevent halt cease abolish terminate

Synonyms by register

Formal

prohibit forbid interdict disallow

Informal

block stop veto rule out

Literary

outlaw taboo

Antonyms

allow permit sanction authorize approve endorse legalize

Common collocations

  • ban on smoking
  • ban on alcohol
  • ban on imports
  • ban on firearms
  • ban on protests
  • ban on certain foods
  • ban on gambling

Word family

noun ban
verb ban
adjective banned

Usage note

As a verb, 'ban' means to officially or legally prohibit something. It often carries a strong negative connotation, implying a forceful restriction.

Example sentences

  1. The library has banned food and drinks inside the premises.
  2. The government has banned the use of single-use plastics.
  3. The coach has banned the player from the team for unsportsmanlike conduct.
  4. The store has banned the customer for shoplifting.
  5. The school has banned the use of fireworks during school events.

Quotes

  • We cannot defend freedom abroad by deserting it at home. - Edward R. Murrow
  • The first duty of a man is to think for himself. - Jose Marti
  • Freedom of speech is a principal pillar of a free government; when this support is taken away, the constitution of a free society is dissolved. - Benjamin Franklin

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