Need word ideas for Forbidden Words? Here are 100 tried-and-tested examples — each with 5 forbidden clues — sorted by difficulty. Use them at your next party, team event, or game night with friends.
One player sees a word and 5 forbidden clue words. They have to describe the secret word to their team without using any of the forbidden words. The opposing team's referee watches for slip-ups. If you accidentally say a forbidden word — buzz! The team loses that word and moves to the next one.
The challenge is that the forbidden words are exactly the ones you'd instinctively reach for. Describing "pizza" without saying "cheese", "dough" or "Italian"? That's where the fun begins.
💡 Tip: The online version at roomforgames.com has all these words built in — the game picks them randomly so you don't need to prepare anything. Just create a room and play.
These are everyday objects and concepts. Most players will get them in under 10 seconds. Perfect for warming up or playing with kids.
Familiar concepts, but the forbidden words block the obvious descriptions. You'll need to think sideways. These work best with adults and teenagers.
Abstract concepts, emotions, and words where the forbidden clues cut off almost every escape route. These separate the casual players from the true wordsmiths.
The best words for Forbidden Words share a few things in common. Everyone should know the word — obscure vocabulary isn't fun, it's frustrating. The forbidden clues should block the obvious descriptions, but leave creative side-routes open. A word like "pizza" is perfect because you can't say "cheese" or "Italian", but you could talk about delivery, slices, or midnight snacks.
Mix difficulties throughout the game rather than doing all easy words first. This keeps everyone engaged — beginners get their moments, and experienced players get challenged.
For team events and work settings, consider adding industry-specific words that your group would know. A marketing team describing "SEO" without saying "Google", "search", "ranking", "website" or "traffic"? That's a memorable round.
💡 Pro tip: The hardest words aren't the obscure ones — they're the simple concepts where the forbidden words block every obvious route. Try describing "water" without saying "drink", "ocean", "river", "wet" or "liquid". Suddenly the simplest word becomes the hardest challenge.
What are forbidden words in the game?
In Forbidden Words, one player describes a secret word to their team — but they cannot use the 5 forbidden clue words listed on the card. For example, if the word is PIZZA, you might not be allowed to say "cheese", "Italian", "dough", "oven" or "toppings". Your team has to guess the word from your creative description.
How many words do you need for a game of Forbidden Words?
A typical round lasts 60 seconds, and most teams guess 3-5 words per round. For a full game with 4-6 rounds, you need about 20-30 words. The online version at roomforgames.com has over 100 words built in, so you never run out.
Can you play Forbidden Words online?
Yes — roomforgames.com offers a free online version of Forbidden Words for 4-12 players. Create a room, share the code with your friends, and play from any device. No download or account needed.
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