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.

In his order, Nunley said the FCC doesn’t have the power to decide antitrust issues or prevent enforcement of antitrust laws in federal court.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

Tom and Eleni then sprayed the fire with garden hoses to prevent the blaze from spreading to the home until the fire department arrived.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

Another is to prevent the destruction of evidence of corruption, for example in government ministries.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

The driver of the vehicle, unaware that the SUV riding the shoulder was a federal agent, partially blocked the shoulder to prevent the SUV from cutting off the Cadillac.

From Slate • Apr. 17, 2026

Perhaps she had come to prevent her unhappy customer from dripping hot salty tears on the books.

From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood

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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