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 new research suggests that targeting chromosome separation processes could help prevent abnormal cells from surviving and continuing to grow.

From Science Daily • May 25, 2026

This year, Saudi authorities are working to prevent the war from affecting the environment at the hajj.

From Barron's • May 25, 2026

"But we are all here to try to win against him and prevent him from taking more titles."

From BBC • May 23, 2026

Keeping the tank as cool as possible could be a workable approach to prevent an explosion.

From Los Angeles Times • May 23, 2026

Hoping to prevent another war, the world leaders gave in to Hitler’s demands.

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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