verboten
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: * Forbidden, prohibited by authority: Describes something that is officially or formally not allowed. It often implies a strong, sometimes arbitrary, prohibition. * Banned, not permitted: Indicates that an action, object, or topic is expressly disallowed.
Usage
The word "verboten" is used to describe something that is strictly not allowed. It is a formal and strong term, often carrying a connotation of an authoritative or categorical ban. * It is typically used predictively (after a linking verb like "is," "was," "seems"). * It can modify a noun directly when used attributively (before the noun).
Examples
- The use of mobile phones is verboten during the examination.
- In the museum, flash photography is strictly verboten.
- He entered the verboten zone despite the clear warnings.
- Discussing salaries with colleagues was considered verboten in that company.
Advanced Usage
- The term is of German origin and is sometimes used in English to give a sense of a rigid, rule-based prohibition, often with a slightly formal or historical nuance.
- It can be used somewhat hyperbolically in informal contexts to describe a strong social rule rather than a legal one.
- Wearing white after Labor Day was once verboten in fashion circles.
Variants and Related Words
- Forbidden (adj.): The most common direct synonym, meaning not allowed.
- Prohibited (adj.): Formally forbidden by law, rule, or authority.
- Banned (adj.): Officially or legally prohibited.
- Taboo (adj./n.): Prohibited by social or cultural custom. (While related, "taboo" is more about social or sacred prohibition, whereas "verboten" is often about official rules).
Synonyms
- Forbidden
- Prohibited
- Banned
- Outlawed
- Not permitted
- Disallowed
Antonyms
- Permitted
- Allowed
- Authorized
- Acceptable
Idioms and Phrases
- Strictly verboten: An emphatic phrase reinforcing the absolute nature of the prohibition.
- Access to the archival documents is strictly verboten without prior clearance.
- As seen in the reference context, the phrase "out" (as in "were out") can function as a colloquial synonym in specific constructions.
- Dancing was out in their conservative household. (Meaning: Dancing was forbidden.)
Adjective
- excluded from use or mention
- forbidden fruit
- in our house dancing and playing cards were out
- a taboo subject