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.

Sassine said Aliph teamed up with local antiquities authorities to repair a section of blown-apart fencing to prevent people from entering the jeopardized site or its visitors center.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

And a culture of callouts, scandals, and fear may prevent media and publishing from wrestling with much thornier questions of authorship.

From Slate • Apr. 17, 2026

Having a lower-priced ad-tier is a positive for Netflix, as the company can prevent users from cancelling outright if they are feeling economically pressured.

From Barron's • Apr. 16, 2026

Some have been trying to prevent steep rises in costs for employees.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2026

“Nathan,” Wind Being said, “this ice barrier was created by Mother Water Monster to prevent passage between the worlds. You’ll have to sing for us to pass.”

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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