we are forbidden to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are forbidden to" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to express something that is not allowed or prohibited. For example: "We are forbidden to enter the building without permission."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

We are forbidden to leave the place so the four of us hide near the marsh.

The New York Times - Books

We are forbidden to shout "fire" in a crowded theater when there is no fire.

The New York Times

Poetry has the capacity to remind us of something we are forbidden to see.

The Guardian - Books

A guy pulls down his pants and bares his soul, and we are forbidden to have thoughts?

The New Yorker

In a moment, behind the curtain of trees, something that we are forbidden to witness will begin.

The Guardian - Books

In 2006, Rich wrote in the Guardian that "poetry has the capacity to remind us of something we are forbidden to see.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

We were forbidden to pray aloud.

The New York Times

We were forbidden to light the kerosene lamp when we were alone.

Columbia University

"We were forbidden to speak about our activities among each other, even off duty.

The New York Times

We were forbidden to date or pursue romantic relationships with anyone living within our mission territory.

The New York Times

Because of religious prejudices that neither of us understood, we were forbidden to play with each other.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are forbidden to", ensure the context clearly indicates who is imposing the prohibition. This adds clarity and authority to the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "we are forbidden to" when the situation involves a personal preference or lack of skill, rather than an actual rule or law. Instead, use phrases like "we are unable to" or "we choose not to".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are forbidden to" functions as an expression of prohibition. It indicates that a specific action is not permitted, often by an external authority or established rule. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness and usage. For example, "We are forbidden to leave the place."

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are forbidden to" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to express a prohibition. Ludwig AI confirms this. Predominantly found in news, formal business, and scientific contexts, it indicates that an action is not allowed, often by an external authority. While other alternatives like "we are not allowed to" or "we must not" exist, "we are forbidden to" carries a more formal and authoritative tone. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to provide clear context regarding who or what is imposing the restriction to ensure clarity. Avoid using it in situations where personal preference or lack of skill is the issue.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are prohibited from

This alternative uses "prohibited", which carries a slightly more formal tone than "forbidden".

we are not permitted to

Similar to "not allowed", but can carry a slightly more formal tone.

we are not allowed to

This alternative uses a more common and less formal expression to convey the same meaning.

we must not

A more direct and concise way of expressing prohibition, suitable for various contexts.

it is forbidden for us to

This version rephrases the sentence structure, placing emphasis on the act of forbidding.

we are barred from

Using "barred" implies a more official or legal restriction.

we are restricted from

"Restricted" suggests limitations rather than complete prohibition.

we are under a ban to

This alternative highlights the existence of a ban affecting the action.

we are prevented from

This phrasing focuses on the act of being stopped or hindered.

we are constrained to not

This implies a stronger sense of external pressure or obligation.

FAQs

How can I use "we are forbidden to" in a sentence?

Use "we are forbidden to" to indicate a prohibition or restriction. For example, "We are forbidden to discuss the details of the case with anyone outside the team."

What can I say instead of "we are forbidden to"?

You can use alternatives like "we are prohibited from", "we are not allowed to", or "we must not depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "we are forbidden from"?

While "we are forbidden to" is more common, "we are forbidden from" is also grammatically correct, especially when followed by a noun or gerund. The choice often depends on stylistic preference.

What's the difference between "we are forbidden to" and "we are not allowed to"?

"We are forbidden to" generally implies a stricter, more formal prohibition, often imposed by an authority. "We are not allowed to" can be used in more casual contexts and may imply a more flexible restriction.