The word "don't" is a contraction of "do not," and can imply negativity or prohibitive behavior. Some synonyms for "don't" include "refrain," "avoid," "cease," "abstain," "halt," and "forbid." Each of these words suggests a different level of restraint or control, ranging from a simple suggestion to avoid a behavior to a complete prohibition. Depending on the situation, using one of these synonyms instead of "don't" can add a more emphatic tone or communicate the severity of a rule. Alternately, using a synonym for "don't" can help soften the language and make the request or rule more palatable.