there is a ban on...

[antonina_74]

I've been to the theatre today and there was an announcement at the beginning
of the play:
"we would like to remind you that there is a ban on taking photographs and
any kind of recording..."
is it correct English? it does not "sound English" to me, shouldn't we say
"it is forbidden to take photographs"?

[i.nes]

I've found this example (to some dictionary definition): "Smoking is banned in
this building". Hence: "Taking photographs is banned in this theatre". Could be
correct BUT personally I'd go for: "Taking photographs or using recording
(audio/video) devices is strictly prohibited".

[antonina_74]

well I know the expression "sth is banned" but not "there's a ban on"...

[i.nes]

Oh, but this expression is absolutely correct :)

[mharrison]

This expression is fine. See in Google:

-Throughout the country there is a ban on taking
photographs inside churches or church halls during services

-There is a ban on smoking in public places but is
allowed in restaurants and bars

-There is a ban on commercial fin fishing west of the Gladesville Bridge

-there is a ban on animal testing of finished cosmetic products, but not
ingredients

-etc.


But more elegant could be:

The use of any photographic or recording equipment is strictly prohibited.

[Gość: xxc]

I think that if something is said less formally it scares also less.Strictly
prohibitet?Spies go home!

[antonina_74]

thanks a lot!