Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
categorically prohibited
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "categorically prohibited" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is completely and unequivocally not allowed or forbidden. Example: "The use of mobile phones during the examination is categorically prohibited."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Formal & Business
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
10 human-written examples
("It is categorically prohibited for disciplinary measures imposed in regard to the Armenians to be implemented against other Christians," a secret telegram stated).
News & Media
We can maintain therefore that under IHL, pillage, or the appropriation of civilian property by illegal force is categorically prohibited.
The final paragraphs of this research analysis aim to establish that appropriation of civilian property by force is categorically prohibited under IHL.
The final passages of this research analysis highlight that legal appropriation of civilian property, whether through forced displacement any other act is categorically prohibited under IHL.
Spring AWithning is now playing atherevocationnsof TheaterightNew York.
News & Media
Writing only for himself, Thomas wrote a one-page dissent that continued to adhere to his hard-line approach -- one that says that affirmative action is "categorically prohibited".
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
49 human-written examples
We further challenge the industry to adopt a standard that categorically prohibits the storing of images or any other personally identifying information.
News & Media
Whereas the moral rules categorically prohibit violations (unless sufficient reasons can be provided), the moral ideals merely encourage people to prevent or relieve the sorts of harms covered by the rules.
Science
Free speech protections do not categorically prohibit all instances of government coercion of speech.
News & Media
Some cultures and religions particularly Islam, categorically prohibit the use of alcohol and regard its use as a sin ('haram') [ 27].
Science
The findings of this paper show that under IHL treaties, pillage is categorically and universally prohibited and can be considered to have taken place if civilian property is appropriated by illegal force through illegal forced displacement.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "categorically prohibited" to emphasize that something is absolutely not allowed and that there are no exceptions. This phrase adds a layer of firmness and finality to the prohibition.
Common error
While "categorically prohibited" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or stiff in everyday conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "absolutely not allowed" or "completely banned" in less formal settings.
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "categorically prohibited" functions as an emphatic prohibition. The adverb "categorically" intensifies the verb "prohibited", signifying that something is not only forbidden but also explicitly and unconditionally so. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a correct and usable phrase.
Frequent in
News & Media
40%
Science
40%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Wiki
10%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "categorically prohibited" is a strong and definitive way to express that something is absolutely forbidden. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While effective, it can sound overly formal in casual settings, so consider alternatives like "strictly forbidden" or "absolutely banned" for informal communication. Usage analysis shows it is most common in "News & Media" and "Science" contexts. Remember to employ this phrase when you want to leave no room for misinterpretation or exceptions, but be mindful of the context to ensure the tone is appropriate.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
firmly prohibited
Replaces "categorically" with "firmly", indicating a strong prohibition.
outright prohibited
Substitutes "categorically" with "outright", suggesting a complete and direct prohibition.
definitely prohibited
Replaces "categorically" with "definitely", implying a certain and absolute prohibition.
flatly prohibited
Uses "flatly" instead of "categorically" to convey a straightforward and firm prohibition.
totally prohibited
Replaces "categorically" with "totally", emphasizing the completeness of the prohibition.
unequivocally prohibited
Substitutes "categorically" with "unequivocally", stressing that the prohibition is clear and without doubt.
categorically banned
Replaces "prohibited" with "banned", providing a synonym with a similar sense of being forbidden.
expressly prohibited
Uses "expressly" to indicate that the prohibition is explicitly stated.
absolutely prohibited
Replaces "categorically" with "absolutely", emphasizing the unconditional nature of the prohibition.
categorically forbidden
Substitutes "prohibited" with "forbidden", offering a direct synonym.
FAQs
How to use "categorically prohibited" in a sentence?
Use "categorically prohibited" to state that something is strictly forbidden and without exception. For example, "The use of mobile phones during the exam is "categorically prohibited"".
What can I say instead of "categorically prohibited"?
You can use alternatives like "strictly forbidden", "absolutely banned", or "totally prohibited" depending on the context.
Which is correct, "categorically prohibited" or "categorically allowed"?
"Categorically prohibited" and "categorically allowed" are both grammatically correct, but they have opposite meanings. The choice depends on whether something is being forbidden or permitted without exception.
Is "categorically prohibited" the same as "strictly prohibited"?
Yes, ""categorically prohibited"" and "strictly prohibited" are very similar in meaning. Both phrases indicate that something is absolutely not allowed, but "categorically prohibited" emphasizes the lack of any exceptions.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested