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Inhibition - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Inhibition refers to a feeling of restraint or self-consciousness that prevents someone from acting freely. It can also describe a process that stops or slows down a reaction, such as in psychology or biology.

inhibition

/ˌɪnɪˈbɪʃən/ /ˌɪnɪˈbɪʃən/

Definition:

A feeling of self-consciousness or restraint that prevents free behavior or expression.

Synonyms:

restraint, hesitation, reluctance, shyness

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

boldness, confidence, freedom

Common Collocations:

social inhibition, loss of inhibition, overcome inhibition, display inhibition

Derivatives:

inhibit, inhibited, inhibitory

Usage Tips:

Use "inhibition" to describe mental barriers that limit actions or expressions in social or personal contexts.

Common Phrases:

lose one's inhibitions, without inhibition, break through inhibitions

Etymology:

From Latin "inhibitio," meaning a holding back or restraining; related to "inhibit."

Examples:

  • 1. She felt no inhibition when dancing with friends.
  • 2. His shyness created an inhibition around strangers.
  • 3. Alcohol can lower social inhibitions at parties.
  • 4. The child overcame her inhibition and spoke confidently.

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