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.

That means the state can’t use this legal route to prevent the prediction-markets platform from operating within its borders.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

Before departing with a delegation for Shanghai, Cheng told journalists that Taiwan "must do everything in our power to prevent war from breaking out".

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

"Have some perspective about how difficult it is what we have done until now," said Arteta, when asked how he and the team prevent a longer run of defeats.

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

There is growing demand for treatments that can safely prevent and reverse bone loss over time.

From Science Daily • Apr. 6, 2026

Haig worried that the Americans would not arrive in time to prevent an Allied defeat.

From "The War to End All Wars: World War I" by Russell Freedman

prevent

Example Sentences

Related Words