no smoking

USAGE SUMMARY

"no smoking" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
You can use it to indicate that smoking is not allowed in a certain area or to express that you don't want someone to smoke. For example, "No smoking in this area, please."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It said: "No Smoking".

The New York Times

"No smoking now".

The Guardian - Music

A "No Smoking" sign every ten feet.

The New Yorker

Well, except for the no smoking signs.

The New York Times

The Royal Academy is a "no smoking" building.

The Guardian

The prevailing ethos dictates No Smoking, No Drinking, No Sex.

The New Yorker

Red "No Smoking" signs were spray-painted on the walls.

The New Yorker

Inside, the polite "No smoking" requests are politely ignored.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

It's the no-smoking bus.

The Guardian

A no-smoking area can be arranged.

The New York Times - Travel

Establishing "no-smoking" environment.

BMC Cancer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When posting "no smoking" signs, ensure they are clearly visible and placed at eye level for maximum impact. Use universal symbols alongside text for better comprehension.

Common error

Avoid assuming that everyone understands the boundaries of a "no smoking" zone. Clearly define the perimeter and consider additional signage at the edges to prevent unintentional violations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "no smoking" functions primarily as a prohibitive declaration, clearly indicating that smoking is not allowed. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, showing its prevalent use in signs and regulations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Academia

18%

Travel

12%

Less common in

Science

9%

Style

6%

Sport

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "no smoking" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to prohibit smoking in specific areas. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its usage across various contexts, primarily in news, media, and academic settings. The phrase functions as a clear and direct prohibition, with neutral formality, and alternatives such as "smoking prohibited" or "smoke-free area" can be used depending on the specific nuance intended. According to Ludwig, the key is to ensure the message is clear and visible, avoiding ambiguity about the extent of the "no smoking" zone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

smoking prohibited

Formal alternative emphasizing the act of smoking is forbidden.

smoking not allowed

Directly states the act is not permitted.

no tobacco use

Broader term covering all forms of tobacco, not just smoking.

smoke-free area

Describes the area where smoking is restricted.

designated non-smoking area

Specifies an area where smoking is explicitly not allowed.

tobacco-free zone

Similar to 'no tobacco use', but emphasizes the geographical area.

cessation of smoking

Focuses on the act of stopping smoking, rather than prohibiting it.

ban on smoking

Highlights the prohibition's official status.

non-smoking policy

Refers to rules and regulations against smoking.

quit smoking

Advises stopping the habit altogether.

FAQs

What does "no smoking" mean?

The phrase "no smoking" indicates that smoking is not permitted in a specific area. It's commonly used on signs to enforce smoking bans.

What can I say instead of "no smoking"?

Alternatives include "smoking prohibited", "smoking not allowed", or "smoke-free area" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "no smoking" or "not smoking"?

The correct and commonly used phrase is "no smoking". "Not smoking" is grammatically correct but has a different meaning, referring to the state of not currently smoking.

Where is "no smoking" typically enforced?

"No smoking" policies are often enforced in public places, workplaces, and enclosed spaces to protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke.