How to Say "forbidden" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “forbidden” is “prohibido” — A1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
Fumar está estrictamente prohibido en este hospital.
Smoking is strictly forbidden in this hospital.
Es una zona prohibida; no puedes pasar.
It is a prohibited zone; you cannot enter.
La entrada de perros está prohibida en la playa.
The entry of dogs is prohibited on the beach.
Agreement is Key
Since 'prohibido' is an adjective here, it must match the thing it describes. If you are talking about 'la fruta' (feminine), you must say 'la fruta prohibida'.
With Ser or Estar
It usually pairs with 'estar' when referring to a temporary state, but most often with 'estar' or 'ser' when announcing a permanent rule: 'Está prohibido'.
Forgetting Gender Match
Mistake: “La zona prohibido.”
Correction: La zona prohibida. (Since 'zona' is feminine, 'prohibido' must be 'prohibida'.)
Other Meanings of “prohibido”
“prohibido” can also mean:
- Used in the passive voice, e.g., 'was forbidden'(B1)
Related Translations
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