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.

"Through strengthened domestic protection, climate-responsive planning, and global financial and technical assistance, we can still prevent the first modern extinction of a great ape species."

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

Sheinbaum said fences will be installed to prevent confrontations between police and protesters in the Zócalo.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

The drug can also be used to prevent animals from becoming infected by a screwworm, Talbot said.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026

The government has taken stakes in startups like Kraken, Wayve and Oxford Quantum Circuits in recent weeks, in a bid to prevent them from moving out of the country to look for funding.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

Even if he did tell Nali, she might try to protect him and prevent him from going to the Third World.

From "Healer of the Water Monster" by Brian Young

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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