inhibited
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪnˈhɪbɪtɪd/
KK: /ɪnˈhɪbɪtɪd/
adjective
Definition
Not able to behave freely or comfortably due to feelings of self-consciousness or mental restrictions.
Example
She felt inhibited during the presentation and struggled to express her ideas clearly.
Conversation
I felt so inhibited during the presentation today.
Really? I thought you did great!
Thanks! I just get nervous and feel all inhibited in front of people.
I totally understand that. Maybe practicing more would help.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
restrained
shy
self-conscious
Antonyms
uninhibited
confident
outgoing
verb
Definition
To hold back or restrain something, often emotions or actions.
Example
She felt inhibited in expressing her true feelings during the meeting.
Tense Forms
Past: inhibited
Past Participle: inhibited
Conversation
I felt so inhibited during the presentation yesterday.
Really? I thought you did great!
Thanks, but I just couldn't shake off that feeling.
Root Explanation
Inhibited → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "habere" (meaning to have or hold). The word describes a state of not being able to hold or express oneself freely, often due to psychological constraints.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'not able to hold' your feelings or actions — 'in-' means not, and 'habere' means to have or hold.
Visually Confused Words
uninhibited
inhabited
autoinhibited
uninhabited
unexhibited