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 31-year-old teaching assistant, who wears a headscarf, burst into tears in front of the security guard's booth -- the very spot where Abdullah gave his life to prevent a massacre.

From Barron's • May 19, 2026

Car engines need clean motor oil to lubricate parts, remove debris and prevent overheating.

From MarketWatch • May 19, 2026

It cannot reach far beyond state lines to prevent those parties from litigating their grievances in a different, more appropriate venue.

From Slate • May 19, 2026

AI-powered cameras are being deployed in the San Francisco Bay to prevent ship collisions with gray whales, which contributed to 21 deaths in 2025.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

Later running on a platform to prevent territorial slavery and preserve the Union, he was elected president on November 6, 1860.

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock

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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