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.

Julie said she wanted to speak up to help prevent other people falling victim to similar scams - and to put pressure on dating sites to take action.

From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026

Low folate can raise homocysteine, a blood marker that has been associated with cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline, though this does not prove that folate supplements prevent either.

From Science Daily • Jun. 6, 2026

But the idea is to prevent death, engage clients and start a relationship that might lead to transformative care.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026

He knew the situation was delicate and complicated, and he worked directly with young activists on how to prevent their views on this political issue from feeding bigotry.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

They checked ID cards to prevent underage teenagers from sneaking into restricted movies that contained dancing or kissing scenes.

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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