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.

She believes that the Fed needs to work to prevent the public from falling into an “inflationary mindset” in order to bring inflation back to 2%.

From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026

A job won’t replace a career launch, but it can keep money flowing, build experience and prevent months from slipping by while you wait for the perfect opportunity.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026

The bodies of those suspected of having died with Ebola are not allowed to be handled by relatives to prevent the risk of spread.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 2026

Illinois lawmakers approved a bill to prevent private-equity firms from influencing law firms, as more states consider limits on buyout deals in the legal field.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026

In 1943, members of the Dutch Resistance bombed the Amsterdam civil registry office in an attempt to destroy records, to prevent the Nazis from identifying Jews and others marked for persecution, arrest or forced labour.

From "Code Name Kingfisher" by Liz Kessler

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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