a total ban

USAGE SUMMARY

"a total ban" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to refer to a complete prohibition of something. Example sentence: The mayor proposed a total ban on the sale and use of fireworks within the city limits.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A total ban would surely be disproportionate.

The Guardian - Opinion

I am, I admit, ambivalent about a total ban.

The Guardian - Opinion

There should be a total ban on building in gardens.

The Guardian - Opinion

A total ban by Switzerland has lasted until this day.

The Guardian - Sport

Last month, he endorsed a total ban on stock options.

The New York Times

Among Republicans, 32 percent supported a total ban.

The New York Times

Garin has called for "a total ban on all firecrackers".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Yet he continues to advocate a total ban.

The Economist

Earlier this year, groups calling for a total ban on abortion marched through Warsaw.

The Guardian

If the athletes are granted a reprieve from Cas, the possibility of a total ban ends.

The Guardian - Sport

Even a total ban on news racks would not deny the "freedom to distribute".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a total ban", ensure that the scope of the ban is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Be specific about what is being banned and under what circumstances.

Common error

Avoid implying that "a total ban" will automatically eliminate the prohibited activity. Acknowledge potential challenges in enforcement and compliance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a total ban" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a complete and absolute prohibition, as Ludwig AI confirms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

12%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a total ban" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase signifying a complete prohibition. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its broad usage across various contexts, primarily in news, business, and scientific domains. When writing, ensure clarity about the scope of the ban and avoid overstating its enforceability. Consider alternative phrases like "complete prohibition" for variety. By considering common errors and exploring related phrases, you can effectively communicate the concept of a total ban in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complete prohibition

Synonymous replacement that emphasizes the thoroughness of the prohibition.

an outright prohibition

Indicates a direct and absolute ban without exceptions.

a blanket ban

Suggests a wide-ranging ban covering numerous or all instances.

a full prohibition

Emphasis on the comprehensiveness of the restriction.

an absolute restriction

Highlights the lack of exceptions to the ban.

a complete embargo

Implies a complete cessation of trade or communication.

a stringent prohibition

Emphasizes the strict enforcement of the ban.

a zero-tolerance policy

Focuses on a strict enforcement of rules with no exceptions.

a categorical ban

Denotes a ban based on belonging to a particular category.

a decisive prohibition

Implies a firm and unambiguous decision to prohibit something.

FAQs

How can I use "a total ban" in a sentence?

You can use "a total ban" to describe a complete prohibition of something. For instance: "The city council implemented a total ban on plastic bags".

What's the difference between "a total ban" and "a partial ban"?

"A total ban" signifies a complete prohibition, while "a partial ban" only restricts certain aspects or instances of something.

What can I say instead of "a total ban"?

Alternatives include "a complete prohibition", "an outright ban", or "a blanket ban", depending on the desired nuance.

Is "a total ban on" always necessary, or can I omit "on"?

While "a total ban" can sometimes stand alone, it's typically followed by "on" to specify what is being banned: "a total ban on smoking", for example. Omitting "on" may sound awkward or incomplete.