Inhibition

Noun

Definition: A feeling that makes one self-conscious and unable to act in a relaxed and natural way.

Definition: A mental or psychological restraint or suppression.

Synonyms: Restraint, Constraint, Self-consciousness

Antonyms: Liberation, Freedom, Spontaneity

Examples:
  • His shyness and inhibition prevented him from speaking up at the meeting.
  • The performer danced with complete inhibition, expressing herself freely.
Mnemonics:
  • "Inhibition" can be thought of as the "inward" or internal restraint that hinders natural behavior.
  • Think of how a person may feel inhibited in a formal setting, leading to self-consciousness.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "inhibition" comes from the Latin word "inhibitio," which means a restraining or holding back.

Historical Usage:

The term "inhibition" has been used in psychology and related fields to describe the constraining effect on behavior or mental processes.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Let your inhibitions go"

Explanation:

Encouragement to overcome self-consciousness and act without restraint.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Equating inhibition solely with shyness or introversion.

Explanation:

Inhibition can affect individuals differently, and while it can be associated with shyness, it is not exclusive to those traits. Inhibition can also result from various social, cultural, or environmental factors, leading to a general inability to act freely or naturally in different situations.

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