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.

Sassine said Aliph teamed up with local antiquities authorities to repair a section of blown-apart fencing to prevent people from entering the jeopardized site or its visitors center.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

And a culture of callouts, scandals, and fear may prevent media and publishing from wrestling with much thornier questions of authorship.

From Slate • Apr. 17, 2026

Some have been trying to prevent steep rises in costs for employees.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2026

On Friday, lawyers for Roberts-Smith - who denies the claims - argued the "unprecedented" case will face long delays and ongoing imprisonment would prevent him being able to properly mount a defence.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

“If we get caught in here, whatever you did to prevent our arrest will be a waste.”

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin

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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