Definitions

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.

Officers set up cordons on surrounding roads to prevent people from heading to the coast.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

“Why did you want to prevent me from walking across the beach?” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

The aim is to refine how we interpret the past while finding new ways on how to prevent dental disease today.

From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026

Nicholson - who remains under investigation for trafficking - was given the order by Dumfries Sheriff Court to prevent him moving vessels without providing crew details.

From BBC • Jun. 8, 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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