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Definitions

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.

Ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend, the Met said they have increased officer numbers and put in place a "strong policing plan... to prevent and deal with any future disorder".

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

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

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

They were sad victims of another of the Mary Rose’s innovations—extremely strong, tall netting that surrounded the main deck, used to prevent an enemy from boarding the flagship.

From "Shipwrecked!" by Martin W. Sandler

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.