proscribe
proh-SKRYB
/proʊˈskraɪb/
To forbid, especially by law; to denounce or condemn.
A very strong word for prohibition, often used in legal or official contexts.
The story behind the word. In Ancient Rome, 'proscribere' meant to publish a list of names of people who were declared outlaws. Their names were written 'forth' in public so everyone knew they were condemned.
Word relationships
- forbid: Forbid is a general term; proscribe is more formal and often carries the weight of law.
- ban: Ban is commonly used for products or activities; proscribe is often used for behaviors or groups.
- permit: Permit is to allow; proscribe is to strictly forbid.
- prescribe: Prescribe is to mandate an action; proscribe is to mandate its avoidance.
Commonly confused with
- prescribe: Prescribe is a positive command (do this); proscribe is a negative command (don't do this).
Word family
- proscription (noun): the action of forbidding something; prohibition.
Collocations
- proscribe a practice
- strictly proscribed
- proscribed organization
Example sentences
- "The new legislation seeks to proscribe the sale of certain high-risk chemicals to the public." Legal
- "In some cultures, certain traditional practices are proscribed by modern ethical standards." Social/Academic
Memory hook
Proscribe sounds like 'Pro-Ban'. Written out of favor.
When not to use
Do not use for casual 'saying no'; use 'forbid' or 'ban' instead.
Fun facts
- A 'proscribed' person in Rome could be killed by anyone without legal penalty.
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