The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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inhibit

verb

/ɪnˈhɪbɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of inhibit

To restrain or prevent something or someone from functioning or acting in a particular way.
"Alcohol can inhibit your ability to make rational decisions."

Detailed meaning of inhibit

It involves suppressing or hindering a natural process or behavior. When something inhibits a person, it may cause them to feel constrained or limited in some way. For example, fear can inhibit a person from taking risks or speaking out, while certain medications may inhibit the growth of bacteria or viruses. Inhibition can also refer to the psychological process of suppressing certain thoughts or emotions, often as a result of societal or cultural norms. Overall, the verb "inhibit" involves the act of stopping or limiting something from happening or functioning normally.

Example sentences containing inhibit

1. Strict regulations can inhibit small businesses.
2. Fear can inhibit personal growth and exploration.
3. Complex problems can inhibit effective solutions.
4. Emotional baggage can inhibit healthy relationships.
5. Technology can inhibit genuine human connections.
6. Personal biases can inhibit objective decision-making.

History and etymology of inhibit

The verb 'inhibit' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'inhibere,' which is a combination of 'in-' meaning 'in' or 'on' and 'hibere' meaning 'to hold' or 'to restrain.' This Latin origin aptly encapsulates the essence of 'inhibit,' which means to restrain or prevent something or someone from functioning or acting in a particular way. The 'in-' prefix suggests an inward or restrictive action, while 'hibere' conveys the idea of holding back or restraining. Over time, 'inhibit' has been adopted into English to describe the act of imposing limits, restrictions, or restraints on various processes, behaviors, or actions. The etymology of 'inhibit' underscores its historical connection to the concept of restraint, making it a fitting term to express the idea of preventing or hindering certain actions or functions.

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Further usage examples of inhibit

1. Inadequate resources can inhibit educational progress.
2. Economic disparities often inhibit social mobility.
3. Excessive control can inhibit creativity and innovation.
4. Legal restrictions can inhibit freedom of expression.
5. Overthinking can inhibit spontaneous creativity.
6. Medical conditions can inhibit physical abilities.
7. Timidness can inhibit professional advancement.
8. Traffic congestion can inhibit timely commuting.
9. Inadequate funding can inhibit scientific research.
10. Peer pressure may inhibit independent choices.
11. Lack of funding can inhibit the progress of scientific research.
12. The medication is designed to inhibit the growth of bacteria.
13. A restrictive work environment can inhibit creativity.
14. Negative thoughts can inhibit happiness and self-confidence.
15. Poor lighting can inhibit productivity in the workplace.
16. Cultural differences can inhibit effective communication.
17. The presence of toxins can inhibit the functioning of vital organs.
18. A lack of trust can inhibit the development of strong relationships.
19. Strict regulations can inhibit innovation in certain industries.
20. Unresolved conflicts can inhibit teamwork and collaboration.
21. Physical pain can inhibit mobility and limit daily activities.
22. Excessive stress can inhibit cognitive function and decision-making abilities.
23. Harsh weather conditions can inhibit outdoor activities.
24. Limited resources can inhibit access to quality education.
25. Discrimination can inhibit equal opportunities for marginalized groups.
26. Overthinking can inhibit spontaneity and hinder decision-making.
27. Financial constraints can inhibit travel and exploration.