Definition

In a way that prevents something from happening or makes it very difficult, often due to high costs or restrictions.

Example

The prices for the concert tickets were prohibitively high for most fans.

Conversation

I really want to go on that trip to Hawaii, but the flights are prohibitively expensive right now.

I know what you mean; travel costs have gone up a lot lately.

It's such a shame because I've been looking forward to it for ages.

Maybe we should wait until prices drop a bit before we book.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Prohibitively → It is formed from "prohibere" (meaning to forbid) and the suffix "-ive" (meaning having the nature of) combined with the adverbial suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "prohibitively" means in a manner that forbids or restricts, often used to describe something that is excessively high or restrictive, such as costs.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'forbids' ('prohibere') you from doing something, and the '-ive' means it has that nature, while '-ly' indicates the manner. So, when something is prohibitively expensive, it means it forbids you from being able to afford it.

Visually Confused Words