Prescribe vs. Proscribe – Which is Correct?
The words prescribe and proscribe are often confused due to their similar spellings and pronunciations, but they have distinct meanings. Prescribe refers to the act of recommending or directing a specific course of action, often used in contexts related to medicine or rules. In contrast, proscribe means to officially forbid or restrict something. Understanding the differences between these terms is essential for clear communication.
Prescribe or Proscribe – Which is Correct?
Both prescribe and proscribe are correct words, but they are used in different contexts. Prescribe is commonly used when discussing rules, regulations, or medicinal advice. Conversely, proscribe is used to denote the act of banning or prohibiting something. Using them interchangeably would lead to confusion due to their opposite meanings.
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribe | When recommending a treatment or action. | The doctor will prescribe medication to help with your symptoms. |
| Proscribe | When forbidding or banning something. | The school has decided to proscribe the use of mobile phones during class. |
How to Use Prescribe
To use prescribe correctly, it often follows the structure of a subject, the verb “prescribe,” and then the object (the treatment or action). It typically applies in medical, legal, and formal contexts.
Example 1: The nutritionist prescribed a balanced diet for the patient.
Example 2: Teachers may prescribe extra reading for students who need additional support.
Example 3: The rules prescribe that all participants must wear safety gear.
What are the different forms of Prescribe?
Prescribe is a regular verb and forms its tenses as follows: the base form is “to prescribe.” The present tense includes “I prescribe,” “you prescribe,” “he/she/it prescribes,” etc. The past tense forms are “I prescribed,” “you prescribed,” and “he/she/it prescribed.” The future tense is expressed as “I will prescribe,” “you will prescribe,” etc. The present participle and past participle forms are “prescribing” and “prescribed,” respectively.
Etymology of the word Prescribe
The word prescribe comes from the Latin root “praescribere,” where “prae-” means “before” and “scribere” means “to write.” Originally, it referred to writing directions in advance, particularly in a medical context.
How to Use Proscribe
To use proscribe correctly, it is typically used in a formal context, referring to laws, regulations, or directives that forbid certain actions. The structure remains similar to that of “prescribe.”
Example 1: The legislation proscribes any form of discrimination in the workplace.
Example 2: Many cultures proscribe certain behaviors during mourning.
Example 3: The government has decided to proscribe the consumption of certain substances.
What are the different forms of Proscribe?
Proscribe is also a regular verb. Its tenses are formed similarly: the base form is “to proscribe.” The present tense includes “I proscribe,” “you proscribe,” “he/she/it proscribes,” and its past tense forms are “I proscribed,” “you proscribed,” and “he/she/it proscribed.” The future tense is structured as “I will proscribe,” “you will proscribe,” etc. The present participle and past participle forms are “proscribing” and “proscribed,” respectively.
Etymology of the word Proscribe
The word proscribe originates from the Latin “proscribere,” which combines “pro-” meaning “for” or “in favor of” and “scribere” meaning “to write.” Historically, it referred to formal directives written to banish or outlaw.
Practice Exercises
- It is important to _____ the correct medication for the patient.
- The law will _____ the possession of illegal substances.
- Doctors often _____ exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle.
- Many societies _____ certain traditional practices.
- Schools may _____ behavior that disrupts the learning environment.
Answer Key
- prescribe
- proscribe
- prescribe
- proscribe
- proscribe
Prescribe Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Recommend | To suggest a favorable course of action. |
| Advise | To offer guidance on a decision or course of action. |
Proscribe Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Forbid | To prohibit or not allow something. |
| Ban | To officially prevent something from happening. |
Conclusion
In summary, prescribe and proscribe serve different but essential functions in English, each denoting separate actions related to recommendations and prohibitions. Understanding their meanings and correct usage can enhance clarity in communication.
