Inhibition: English Vocabulary List

(of circumstances) to stop or prevent someone from being able to do something

"Rain will preclude our picnic."

"The ongoing investigation will unfortunately preclude any further public statements at this time."

to take away from something's effect, value, size, power, or amount

"Cold attenuates the signal."

"The medication is designed to attenuate the severity of the patient's symptoms without causing significant side effects."

to lessen the intensity of something or keep it under control, often through restraint or inhibition

"We need to curb our spending habits."

"The government needs to curb excessive spending by reducing the budget for non essential programs and projects."

to restrict or reduce the normal activity or function of something

"This will inhibit growth."

"Lack of proper nutrients can inhibit the healthy development of young plants and seedlings."

to drive back or push away

"The army repulsed the attack."

"The guards were ordered to repulse any intruders attempting to enter the secure facility without authorization."

to stop supporting an idea, policy, concept, etc.

"They abandon the plan."

"The government was forced to abandon its proposed tax reforms due to widespread public opposition."

to cleverly avoid or escape from someone or something

"The answer continues to elude me."

"The clever thief managed to elude the police by disappearing into the crowded marketplace."

to push away or cause something or someone to retreat or withdraw

"The army repelled the enemy attack."

"The small army managed to repel the much larger invading force by using the mountainous terrain to their advantage during the battle."

to throw away something, often in a responsible manner

"Dispose of the waste."

"It is important to dispose of electronic waste responsibly to prevent environmental contamination."

to loosen, especially by reducing tension or pressure

"She doused the flames with water."

"The firefighter used a powerful hose to douse the flames and prevent the fire from spreading to nearby buildings."

to stop something from happening

"High prices deter many potential buyers."

"High ticket prices often deter many people from attending live theater performances even when they want to go."

(usually plural) the act of damaging and destructing

"The depredation of the forest harmed wildlife."

"The depredation caused by the hurricane left the coastal town in ruins with no power or clean water."