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.

Insufficient airflow control can prevent the vortex from forming, causing the fire to behave more like a conventional burn.

From Science Daily • Jun. 5, 2026

However, to prevent automatic benefit cuts, Congress would need to act to shore up the program’s finances.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 5, 2026

Employees and other insiders generally won’t be able to sell their pre-IPO shares for a few months, because of lockup periods intended to prevent a flood of sudden sales.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

Pacific island neighbour Vanuatu secured a landmark win last year in the International Court of Justice, which found nations had a legal duty to prevent harms from planet-warming pollution.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

Then I could reverse time and prevent the ginormous star from exploding, so my family wouldn’t be swallowed by a stupid black hole.

From "Sir Fig Newton and the Science of Persistence" by Sonja Thomas

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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