Definitions

prevent

[pri-vent] / prɪˈvɛnt /

VERB

keep from happening or continuing

Synonyms

STRONGEST

avert avoid bar block counter forbid forestall halt hamper hinder impede inhibit limit preclude prohibit put an end to restrain restrict rule out stop thwart ward off

STRONG

anticipate arrest baffle balk check chill cool cork counteract dam debar foil forfend frustrate intercept interdict interrupt obstruct obviate repress retard

WEAK

dead-end defend against head off hold back hold off keep lid on nip in the bud put a stop to shut out stave off turn aside

Antonyms

STRONGEST

advance aid allow approve assist continue encourage facilitate forward free help let go open permit promote push release support

STRONG

abet heat liberate warm

WEAK

cause

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The prime minister is expected to scrap plans that would have given security services a blanket exemption from a law designed to prevent cover-ups in public life.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

The base, Bluie East Two, was built in 1942 as part of a network of 17 U.S. bases constructed across Greenland during World War II, partly to prevent Nazi Germany—which occupied Denmark—from taking the island.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 11, 2026

Labor union negotiations are scheduled over the weekend as efforts continue to prevent a Tuesday strike that would shut down all schools operated by the Los Angeles Unified School District.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

A goal of the legislation is to block these cases from going forward and prevent new ones from being filed.

From Salon • Apr. 10, 2026

In an effort to prevent Nazis from ever coming to power again, the Allies ordered German civilian courts to hold “de-Nazification” trials to identify ardent Nazis.

From "Hitler Youth: Growing Up in Hitler's Shadow" by Susan Campbell Bartoletti

Vocabulary lists containing prevent

"Handle with Care"

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The Search Is Over: Synonyms for "Stop"

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1.7.B Using Ice to Keep Orange Groves Warm

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