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.

The Metropolitan Police said he had a "history of serious violence and mental health issues", and he was referred into the government counter-terrorism Prevent programme in 2020.

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2026

The Metropolitan Police said he had been referred to Prevent - a key part of the UK's counter-terrorism strategy - in 2020 but the case was shelved later the same year.

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2026

Those criticised included Lancashire Police, the government's counter-extremism service Prevent, various NHS mental health services, Lancashire County Council, elements of children's social care, youth offending services and a broader "multi-agency" approach.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

People should be screened for their risk of cardiovascular disease starting at age 30, using an AHA online calculator called Prevent that measures risk based on a person’s cholesterol, blood pressure, and other indicators.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

In Baskett's form, the first Gospel only is used, with the collect "Prevent us, O Lord," before it.

From Notes and Queries, Vol. III, Number 83, May 31, 1851 A Medium of Inter-communication for Literary Men, Artists, Antiquaries, Geneologists, etc by Various

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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