Definition

Something that prevents or restricts action or progress.

Example

The new regulations were seen as inhibitive to small businesses trying to grow.

Conversation

I feel like my fear of public speaking is really inhibitive to my career.

I get that; it can hold you back from so many opportunities.

Yeah, I wish I could just overcome that inhibitive feeling.

Have you thought about joining a speaking club? It might help you.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Inhibitive → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "habere" (meaning to have or hold) combined with the suffix "-ive" (indicating a tendency or quality). The word "inhibitive" describes something that has the quality of not allowing or holding back an action or process.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'holds back' ('habere') and is 'not' ('in-') allowing you to do something — that's why inhibitive means it prevents or restricts action.

Visually Confused Words