no-no
Something strictly prohibited
A no-no is something forbidden or inadvisable—a violation of rules, norms, or good sense: Wearing white after Labor Day used to be a fashion no-no.
The reduplicated child's word for "no" gives it a slightly playful tone, often used for social taboos rather than serious prohibitions.
In baseball, a no-no is a no-hitter—a game in which a pitcher allows no hits.
Not allowed
- off-limitsProhibited from access
- verbotenProhibited by authority
- unmentionableToo shameful to discuss
- unthinkableToo terrible to contemplate
unspeakable · inappropriate · unacceptable · scandalous · indecent · stigma · shame · anathema
Officially disallowed
contraband · unauthorized · unlawful · barred · restricted · off-limits · interdicted · proscribed
Clucking sound of reproach
- wagging fingerScolding hand motion
- scoldingHarsh verbal criticism
- reprimandFormal expression of disapproval
- rebukeExpress sharp disapproval
reproach · frown · disfavor · criticism · censure · chiding · admonishment · telling-off
forbidden
Not allowed
- off-limitsProhibited from access
- verbotenProhibited by authority
- unmentionableToo shameful to discuss
unthinkable · unspeakable · inappropriate · unacceptable · scandalous · indecent · stigma · shame · anathema · proscribed
banned
Officially disallowed
illicit · contraband · unauthorized · unlawful · barred · restricted · off-limits · interdicted · proscribed · disallowed
tut-tut
Clucking sound of reproach
- wagging fingerScolding hand motion
- scoldingHarsh verbal criticism
- reprimandFormal expression of disapproval
rebuke · reproach · frown · disfavor · criticism · censure · chiding · admonishment · telling-off · dressing-down
don't
Contraction forbidding action
heads-up · alert · watch out · hands off · stay away · back off · warning sign · uh-uh · nope · not allowed
no-noencouraged
Gave support and confidence
recommended · approved · welcomed · endorsed · applauded