Understanding ‘Prohibitive’: When Costs Become Barriers
Explore the meaning and usage of ‘prohibitive’ in English. Learn its origins, synonyms, antonyms, and common mistakes to avoid. Perfect for IELTS preparation and improving your vocabulary.
Imagine a world where everything you want is just out of reach, not because it doesn’t exist, but because the cost is simply too high.
This is the essence of the word we’re exploring today: prohibitive.
Word type: Prohibitive is an adjective.
Meaning: Prohibitive describes something so expensive or difficult that it prevents people from doing or buying it.
It often refers to costs or prices that are so high they discourage or prevent action.
Word history: The term “prohibitive” originates from the Latin word “prohibere,” meaning “to hold back” or “to forbid.”
It entered the English language in the mid-17th century, initially meaning “forbidding” or “preventive.”
Over time, its usage evolved to primarily describe excessive costs or difficulties that prevent action.
Antonyms: Some antonyms for prohibitive include affordable, reasonable, moderate, and attainable.
Synonyms:
Synonyms for prohibitive include exorbitant, excessive, unreasonable, extortionate, and astronomical.
Examples use in sentences: The prohibitive cost of housing in major cities is forcing many young professionals to live in shared accommodations.
Environmental regulations have made the construction of new coal-fired power plants prohibitive in many countries.
The prohibitive nature of international travel during the pandemic led to a surge in domestic tourism.
Despite her talent, the prohibitive time commitment required for professional sports training deterred her from pursuing a career in athletics.
Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing “prohibitive” with “prohibited.” While “prohibitive” refers to something that discourages or prevents action due to high cost or difficulty, “prohibited” means explicitly forbidden or banned.
Another error is using “prohibitive” solely in the context of monetary cost. Remember, it can also refer to other factors like time, effort, or complexity that make something impractical or unfeasible.
Lastly, some learners mistakenly use “prohibitive” to describe something that is merely expensive rather than so costly it prevents action.
For correct usage, ensure the cost or difficulty is severe enough to actually deter or prevent the activity in question.
To truly master the use of “prohibitive” in your IELTS exam, consider its nuanced meaning. It’s not just about high costs or difficulties, but about those that cross a threshold and become barriers to action.
By incorporating this word effectively in your writing and speaking, you demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of economic and social concepts, showcasing the advanced vocabulary expected at band score 9.0.
