Word
inhibited
Phoneticsin·hib·it·ed, stress on the second syllable
US/ˌɪnˈhɪbətɪd/
UK/ɪnhˈɪbɪtɪd/
Psychology
Definition
adj. feeling shy or nervous, which stops you from saying or doing what you want.
adj. restrained or self-conscious in behavior; unable to act in a relaxed or natural way due to social or internal anxiety. Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'feel' or 'seem'.
Examples
“She felt inhibited and didn't join the dance.”
“Many people feel inhibited when speaking a new language because they are afraid of making mistakes in front of others.”
“The presence of the cameras made the interviewees feel inhibited, resulting in a series of stiff and overly formal responses that lacked their usual spontaneity.”
Examples
simple
“She felt inhibited and didn't join the dance.”
contextual
“Many people feel inhibited when speaking a new language because they are afraid of making mistakes in front of others.”
complex
“The presence of the cameras made the interviewees feel inhibited, resulting in a series of stiff and overly formal responses that lacked their usual spontaneity.”
Usage
Often follows linking verbs such as 'feel', 'seem', or 'become'.
Real-World Examples
“The fear of falling short inhibited their game as the heat rose last time out.” Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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