ban
The government decided to ban smoking in public places.
The government officially decided to prohibit smoking in public places.
to officially or legally prohibit something
The school banned mobile phones in classrooms.
The school officially prohibited mobile phones in classrooms.
Many countries have banned certain chemicals to protect the environment.
Many countries officially prohibited certain chemicals to protect the environment.
Used for actions, substances, or behaviors that are considered harmful or inappropriate.
an official order that prohibits something
There is a ban on plastic bags in this city.
There is an official prohibition on plastic bags in this city.
The ban on single-use plastics will start next year.
The official prohibition on single-use plastics will start next year.
Refers to the prohibition itself, often used in legal or policy contexts.
Pro Tip
Distinguish 'ban' vs. 'forbid'
'Ban' is more formal and often used in legal or official contexts, while 'forbid' is more general and can be used in everyday language.
Gold Rule
Use 'ban' for official prohibitions
Use 'ban' when referring to laws, policies, or official decisions that prohibit something. Avoid using it for personal or informal restrictions.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'bannen' (to summon, proclaim), from Old English 'bannan' (to summon, proclaim), from Proto-Germanic '*bannaną' (to speak, proclaim). Related to Old Norse 'banna' (to forbid) and Old High German 'bannan' (to command).
Usage Notes
Used in formal contexts such as laws, policies, or official decisions. The noun form refers to the prohibition itself, while the verb form describes the action of prohibiting.