Inhibiting

Inhibiting describes the act of hindering, restraining, or preventing a process, action, or feeling. It signifies a dampening effect, suppressing the development or expression of something. It involves setting limits, creating obstacles, or imposing restrictions. The focus is on curtailing or slowing down, potentially blocking a desired outcome. It could be applied to physical activities, psychological states, or chemical reactions, causing a state of restraint. Often, the impact is negative, as it restricts freedom, progress, or the ability to function as desired. The action serves as a barrier against something's full potential or free flow.

Inhibiting meaning with examples

• The constant pressure of deadlines was inhibiting her creativity; she felt too constrained to explore new ideas. She found her writing flow had stopped, and so her progress stalled. Her anxiety was inhibiting her ability to speak in front of the audience, making her voice tremble. The tight schedule inhibited open brainstorming, because of time constraints, this would not happen.
• The government imposed stricter trade regulations, which were inhibiting the growth of small businesses. The new laws created obstacles to international sales. His crippling fear of failure was inhibiting him from starting his own business, and he missed an opportunity. The lack of proper funding inhibited the project from reaching completion, due to poor financial planning.
• The cold weather was inhibiting the germination of the seeds, which caused the crop growth to halt. The enzymes were inhibiting the chemical reaction by blocking the active site. He felt that excessive self-criticism was inhibiting his ability to enjoy life and prevented joy. The excessive noise inhibited his focus, hindering his ability to get work completed.
• The drug's mechanism of action includes inhibiting certain enzymes in the brain, altering mental function. Her shyness was inhibiting her ability to socialize at the party, holding her back. The societal norms are inhibiting certain types of expression from people, who felt held back and couldn't speak. The old and slow computer was inhibiting his workflow.