ENGLISH
REFERENCE

inhibits

v.
C1 Advanced US //ˌɪnˈhɪbəts// UK //ɪnhˈɪbɪts// in·hibits

v. to slow down, stop, or prevent a process or action from happening. It is often used when talking about science, medicine, or how people behave.

v. to hinder, restrain, or prevent an action or process. Often describes the suppression of biological or chemical activity, or the psychological restraint of an impulse.


SIMPLE

Cold weather inhibits the growth of many plants.

CONTEXTUAL

The new medication effectively inhibits the production of the enzyme responsible for inflammation.

COMPLEX

A lack of psychological safety in the workplace often inhibits creative risk-taking, as employees fear the social consequences of making a mistake.

Synonyms
Usage

The verb is transitive and requires a direct object.

Pitfall

The drug inhibits from growingThe drug inhibits growthInhibit is transitive and takes a direct object; it should not be followed by 'from' like the verb 'prevent'.

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