Is 'I Am Forbidden from Smoking' Grammatically Correct?

Often, when we encounter a phrase like 'I am forbidden from smoking,' questions arise about its grammatical correctness. This article aims to clarify whether the phrase is indeed grammatically correct, and if so, why it fits within certain contexts.

Grammatical Correctness of the Phrase

Yes, the phrase 'I am forbidden from smoking' is grammatically correct. It is a valid structure in English that conveys a clear and concise prohibition. Both 'I am forbidden to smoke' and 'I am forbidden from smoking' are correct, depending on the preference or style of the writer.

When you use the phrase 'I am forbidden from smoking,' you are saying that you are prevented from performing the action of smoking. The use of 'from' in this context is a preposition used with the verb 'forbid.' Here are a couple of examples:

I am forbidden from smoking.I am forbidden to smoke.

Alternative Phrases for Prohibition

While 'I am forbidden from smoking' is grammatically correct, there are other ways to express the same idea. For instance, you can say 'I am prevented from smoking,' which conveys the same meaning. Here are a few alternative phrases:

Context of Signage and Prohibition

The phrase 'I am forbidden from smoking' is often found in signage and regulations, where clarity and brevity are crucial. In such contexts, we sometimes sacrifice grammatical purity for the sake of clarity and ease of understanding.

For example, consider the following signage:

No smokingNo parkingNo entryNo littering

These signs are not sentences but rather signages, which are designed to be quick and easy to understand. They use a short and imperative form, without full sentences. The implied verb is 'do' in these cases:

Do not smokeDo not parkDo not enterDo not litter

As in 'do no harm,' these signs are designed to convey a simple, yet clear message. They are not intended to adhere strictly to grammatical rules or sentence structure.

Conclusion

In summary, 'I am forbidden from smoking' is indeed grammatically correct. While it can be expressed in different ways, such as 'I am prevented from smoking,' the phrase is widely accepted and understood in both written and spoken contexts. Its use in signage and other regulatory contexts is a testament to its practical and functional significance, even when it does not follow traditional grammatical rules.