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 bill would also prevent some high-margin services that the equipment-makers provide their Chinese customers.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

Fret not: There are several simple precautions you can take to prevent a flea-borne typhus infection.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

Other doors were sealed, it added, "to prevent excessive permeability of the historic building's spaces - structures dating back to the 1500s - considering their changed functions and the evolving international context".

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

The developer has issued a copyright takedown request in a bid to prevent competitors from cloning the coding tool’s features.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

The important thing, with the big Paris summit coming up, was to prevent a crisis with the Soviet Union.

From "Fallout: Spies, Superbombs, and the Ultimate Cold War Showdown" by Steve Sheinkin

prevent

Example Sentences

Related Words