“Should not” is already correct in formal writing, but a different expression can make the level of advice, prohibition, or criticism more precise. Options range from mild recommendations such as “is not advisable” to firm rules such as “must not.”
Choose the Strength of the Wording
- Ought not to
- Should avoid
- Is advised against
- Is not recommended
- Would be unwise to
- Is discouraged
- Is inadvisable
- Is inappropriate to
- Is not permitted
- Is prohibited
- Must not
- Must refrain from
- Is best avoided
- Is not advisable
- Is not acceptable
Ought not to
A formal, slightly traditional alternative that expresses duty, expectation, or what is considered right.
Example: Organizations ought not to collect more personal data than they need.
Should avoid
A clear recommendation to steer away from an action without making it an absolute rule.
Example: Applicants should avoid including confidential information in the form.
Is advised against
Useful in formal guidance when an action is discouraged because of possible risks or drawbacks.
Example: Travel during the severe weather warning is advised against.
Is not recommended
A neutral professional choice for guidance, instructions, reviews, and technical writing.
Example: Using an unsupported browser is not recommended.
Would be unwise to
Signals poor judgment or likely negative consequences rather than a formal prohibition.
Example: It would be unwise to approve the contract before the final checks are complete.
Is discouraged
Fits policies and guidance when behavior is permitted but the organization would prefer people not to do it.
Example: Printing large documents unnecessarily is discouraged.
Is inadvisable
A concise formal term meaning that a course of action is not sensible or advisable.
Example: It is inadvisable to make changes while the system is updating.
Is inappropriate to
Focuses on suitability, conduct, or professional standards rather than practical risk.
Example: It is inappropriate to discuss individual cases in a public forum.
Is not permitted
States that rules or procedures do not allow the action.
Example: Personal devices are not permitted in the secure area.
Is prohibited
A strong formal option for something explicitly forbidden by a rule, law, or policy.
Example: Smoking is prohibited throughout the building.
Must not
Direct and unambiguous wording for a requirement that leaves no discretion.
Example: Passwords must not be shared with other users.
Must refrain from
Formal wording instructing someone not to engage in a particular behavior.
Example: Participants must refrain from contacting members of the review panel.
Is best avoided
A measured recommendation that suggests caution without sounding overly prescriptive.
Example: Ambiguous abbreviations are best avoided in patient-facing information.
Is not advisable
A standard formal expression for an action that is possible but not considered sensible.
Example: It is not advisable to rely on a single source of evidence.
Is not acceptable
Best for behavior or outcomes that fail to meet required standards.
Example: Submitting fabricated data is not acceptable under any circumstances.