English Reference
verb · noun

ban

v. · n.
US /ˈbæn/ UK /bˈæn/ ban UK spelling ban's, ban's

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    v.to officially say that something is not allowed.

    v.to prohibit or interdict an action, substance, or person by official decree or authority.

    Simple

    The city decided to ban plastic bags to help protect the environment.

    In context

    The international committee voted to ban the athlete from all future competitions after the second doping violation was confirmed.

    Usage

    This is a transitive verb and requires a direct object.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    n.an official rule that says something is not allowed.

    n.an official or legal prohibition against a particular activity, substance, or person.

    Simple

    There is a new ban on smoking in public parks.

    In context

    The government lifted the long-standing ban on imported electronics, hoping to stimulate competition within the local market.

    Usage

    Often followed by the preposition 'on'.

Usage ban on the sale · ban argue · ban foreign

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated