C1verbformalsciencepsychology
US/ɪnˈhɪb.ɪt/
UK/ɪnˈhɪb.ɪt/
to make something slower or less likely to happen, or to stop someone from acting freely
In context
High taxes can inhibit economic growth in small businesses.
Shyness inhibits him from speaking up in meetings.
This chemical inhibits the growth of bacteria in food.
Words that go with inhibit
verb + noun
- inhibit growthCold weather can inhibit plant growth.
- inhibit the development ofFear may inhibit the development of new ideas.
- inhibit the spread ofThe drug inhibits the spread of the virus.
- inhibit competitionLarge firms may inhibit competition.
- inhibit progressStrict rules inhibit progress.
verb + preposition
- inhibit someone fromStrict rules inhibit people from sharing new ideas.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
Fear inhibits him to speak.Correct: Fear inhibits him from speaking.