Synonyms for

Prescribe

Verb / prʌˈskraɪb / / pri:ˈskraɪb / Another word for prescribe — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to give medical treatment or advice

Synonyms & similar words

order dictate order recommend advise suggest dictate direct mandate require enjoin authorize approve endorse ratify validate accord allocate allot apportion assign confer

Synonyms by register

Formal

dictate stipulate decree enjoin

Informal

tell order advise suggest

Literary

ordain enact

Antonyms

prohibit ban forbid veto disallow interdict

Common collocations

  • prescribe medication
  • prescribe treatment
  • prescribe a course of action
  • prescribe rules
  • prescribe limits
  • prescribe a cure
  • prescribe a remedy

Word family

noun prescription
verb prescribe
adjective prescriptive

Usage note

While 'prescribe' can mean to advise or recommend, its most common formal usage, especially in medicine and law, implies a definitive instruction or requirement.

Example sentences

  1. The doctor will prescribe medicine to make you feel better.
  2. The teacher will prescribe a book for you to read over the weekend.
  3. The coach will prescribe exercises to strengthen your muscles.

Quotes

  • Laughter is the best medicine - unless you're asthmatic, then you should use your prescribed medicine. - Unknown
  • I'm not a doctor, but I play one on TV. And I prescribe laughter. - Unknown
  • The art of medicine consists in amusing the patient while nature cures the disease. - Voltaire

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