stave off

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.

De Zerbi has seven games left to turn things around and stave off relegation.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

The enemy will likely take his words seriously and prepare to stave off his threats.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

In an effort to stave off economic disaster, Cuba’s government is considering allowing foreign-based entrepreneurs to start businesses and buy property.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

Last year, Ebrard noted, Mexico managed to stave off Trump’s threats to impose a 25% across-the-board levy on all Mexican imports.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2026

Sometimes, when I have relapses of my old demon, I lie in the crook of his arm and he comforts me this way, talking to me all night long to stave off the bad dreams.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver