Words in the News (5) ✨BAN✨

B2, C1 Level English Vocabulary

Happy Monday, word lovers! Today the spotlight is on the word BAN which can be used both as a noun and a verb.

✨ BAN✨

– a rule, usually official, prohibiting something
– to prohibit someone from doing something

🔹 After several accidents the city introduced a BAN on electric scooters in parks.

🔹 At the university there is a BAN on playing loud music after 10pm.

🔹 Mary’s parents have BANNED her from going out with her friends until she has finished her exams.

🔹 He was BANNED from driving for three years for operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs.

🔹 I have to say I was delighted when they BANNED smoking in restaurants. Thank goodness!

🔹 The athlete is suspected of using a BANNED substance.

Now for some headlines:

“West Virginia governor signs ban on food dyes” (The Hill)

“Spain’s top court backs Barcelona’s plan to ban holiday apartments” (Reuters)

“Vietnam bans vapes, will fine tourists up to US$78 and jail e-cigarette traders, producers” (South China Morning Post)

“South Australia bans fishing of many sharks and rays in its waters” (Mongabay)

“French Court bans far-right leader Marine Le Pen from running for office” (Yahoo News)

Over to you!

1. What bans can you think of that are beneficial to people’s health and wellbeing?

2. What bans are harmful to society? Why are they harmful?

3. If you were president of your country, what would you like to ban?

4. Should social media platforms impose stricter bans on harmful content?

5. At your school were there any bans on certain clothing or hairstyles?

6. Is it ever justified to ban a book?

7. Some social media executives ban their families from using tablets and smartphones, despite promoting these products. What do you think about this?

8. If social media were to be banned, how would it change how we connect with each other?

Words in the News (1): UPEND
Words in the News (2): PROMPT

You can write your answer(s) in the comments or in my EnglishSmarts Telegram channel.