complete ban

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complete ban" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a total prohibition on something without any exceptions. Example: "The government has imposed a complete ban on smoking in public places to protect public health."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A complete ban is long overdue".

The Guardian

The WHO also advocates a complete ban on marketing.

The Economist

Until now, the judge had imposed a complete ban.

The New York Times

Until Friday night, his government had imposed a complete ban on foreign journalists.

The New York Times

Only a complete ban will ensure that animals in circuses are spared further suffering.

The Guardian - Opinion

Rail companies have announced a complete ban on passengers using e-cigarettes anywhere inside stations.

Independent

"The atheist groups effectively created conditions to support a complete ban," Mr. Becker said.

The New York Times

"Instead, universities have gone for the most hardline option: a complete ban".

The Guardian

In many countries there is now a complete ban on the use of lead in gasoline.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A complete ban on the possession of air rifles and pistols.

The Guardian

But he added: "I don't favour a complete ban on all outside jobs or interests.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "complete ban", ensure the context clearly defines what is being banned and the scope of the prohibition. This avoids ambiguity and ensures the message is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "complete ban" when the restriction is partial or has exceptions. Overstating the scope can lead to misinterpretations and undermine the credibility of the statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complete ban" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject or object in a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, it's used to denote a total prohibition or restriction, without exceptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

27%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "complete ban" is a commonly used and grammatically sound way to describe a total prohibition. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. Its frequency of use across various domains, particularly in News & Media and Science, underscores its versatility. When using "complete ban", clarity is key; it should be reserved for situations where the prohibition is truly comprehensive. Alternatives such as "total prohibition" or "blanket ban" can offer subtle variations in emphasis, and should also be kept in mind to ensure that one's writing is not monotonous.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

total prohibition

Emphasizes the act of prohibiting something entirely.

full prohibition

Synonymous, stressing the comprehensive nature of the prohibition.

outright ban

Highlights the direct and immediate nature of the ban.

absolute prohibition

Stresses the lack of any exceptions or conditions.

unconditional ban

Suggests the ban is not subject to any conditions or waivers.

blanket ban

Indicates that the ban applies universally, without exceptions.

strict prohibition

Highlights the severity and enforcement of the ban.

across-the-board ban

Similar to blanket ban, implying universal application.

total restriction

Focuses on the limiting aspect of the ban.

general ban

Emphasizes the wide-ranging scope of the ban.

FAQs

How to use "complete ban" in a sentence?

You can use "complete ban" to describe a situation where something is entirely prohibited. For example, "The city implemented a "complete ban" on single-use plastics".

What can I say instead of "complete ban"?

You can use alternatives like "total prohibition", "outright ban", or "blanket ban" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "complete ban" or "total ban"?

Both "complete ban" and "total ban" are correct and commonly used. The choice often depends on stylistic preference, although "complete ban" may subtly emphasize the thoroughness of the prohibition.

What's the difference between "complete ban" and "partial ban"?

A "complete ban" signifies a total prohibition without exceptions, while a "partial ban" only restricts certain aspects or instances of something, allowing some use or occurrence.