Prescribe / Proscribe
Different meaningsPrescribe sets or recommends what should be done; proscribe forbids what must not be done.
Prescribe
Use when
You mean set down, recommend or require a rule, course or treatment.
Example
“The standard prescribes a minimum retention period.”
Proscribe
Use when
You mean forbid, prohibit or condemn something.
Example
“The policy proscribes using personal accounts for official records.”
Quick check
proscribe a treatment, prescribe the activity, proscribed requirement
Usage note