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.

Access to the fan fest in Zocala plaza was hampered by metal barriers erected in recent days to prevent protesting teachers reaching the area.

From Barron's • Jun. 11, 2026

Coupang said that its explanations and measures to prevent further harm from the data breach "were not sufficiently reflected" in the commission's decision.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

To prevent collisions, retirement-age satellites are sent on a gradual descent at 25 times the speed of sound.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

Following the termination of the investigation, the Justice Department filed a motion with the courts last month to prevent the decision from being cited as precedent in future investigations.

From Barron's • Jun. 11, 2026

He would talk on and on, from morning until night, in order to prevent the senate from voting on laws that he did not want to see passed.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood

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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