prohibited topic

[/prəˈhɪbɪtɪd ˈtɑːpɪk/]
nounpl: prohibited topics
assunto proibido
1. A subject of discussion or conversation that is forbidden, not allowed, or considered inappropriate in a given context, setting, or culture
Religion and politics are often considered prohibited topics at family dinners.
Religião e política são frequentemente considerados assuntos proibidos nas refeições em família.
2. Content that is banned, censored, or restricted by law, institutional policy, or social convention
The journalist was warned that certain prohibited topics could not be covered in the publication.
O jornalista foi avisado de que certos assuntos proibidos não poderiam ser abordados na publicação.
In Brazil, prohibited topics often include discussions about favelas, sensitive social inequality, and political corruption in certain formal settings. In the USA and globally, discussions around politics, religion, and personal finances are traditionally avoided in professional or casual social settings. The concept reflects cultural values around politeness and social harmony.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
forbidden topictaboo subjectrestricted subjectbanned topicoff-limits topic
Antonyms / Antônimos
open topicpermitted subjectallowed topicacceptable subject

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
assunto proibido
Standard usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
tópico proibido
More formal alternative sometimes used in media
São Paulo
assunto vedado
More legal/formal variant in business contexts
Portugal
assunto interdito
European Portuguese preferred term; more formal tone

Related Words

censorshiptaboorestrictioncontroversial subjectsensitive issue

Related Idioms & Phrases

avoid like the plague
don't go there
a no-go zone
tread carefully
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