How to Play Taboo: Forbidden Words Rules & Tips for Game Night
Learn classic Taboo rules, team setup, and scoring tips. Play free with Tadado Mix or create AI decks on iOS and Android.
Taboo — also called Forbidden Words — is one of the best party games for groups who love fast thinking and loud laughter. One player describes a target word while avoiding a list of forbidden clues. If the team guesses before time runs out, you score.
Basic rules
Split into two teams. On your turn, pick a card with one target word and several forbidden words. Describe the target without saying any forbidden word or obvious rhymes. Your team shouts guesses. Pass if you are stuck, but passes are limited.
Winning strategy
Keep clues short. Use stories, categories, and comparisons instead of spelling or rhyming. Harder cards often score more in Tadado, so balance risk and speed.
Play Taboo on your phone
Tadado brings Taboo to mobile with team timers, pass limits, and themed decks. Start free with Tadado Mix, unlock Summer, Cinema, Travel and more for $0.99 each, or generate a custom AI deck for $2.99.