counteract

[koun-ter-akt] / ˌkaʊn tərˈækt /

VERB

do opposing action

Synonyms

STRONGEST

cancel out correct counterbalance halt negate neutralize offset prevent rectify redress resist thwart

STRONG

annul buck cancel check contravene countercheck countervail cross defeat fix foil frustrate hinder invalidate negative oppose remediate right

WEAK

counterwork go against

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid allow assist forward help worsen

STRONG

abet approve break encourage facilitate permit support uphold validate

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.

To counteract the maritime subterfuge, Kpler analysts have to play detective.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 3, 2026

While cutting the balance sheet would reduce liquidity in the financial system, lower interest rates would counteract the negative effect, he has said.

From Barron's • Apr. 24, 2026

The question is, how does A.I.-based research either reinforce or counteract the biases in information-gathering processes that journalists already use?

From Slate • Apr. 17, 2026

Building on this, the researchers explored whether adding NAC or Se to the diet could counteract those effects.

From Science Daily • Mar. 27, 2026

I bet if I did, he’d suggest meditation or come out with some Zen koan to counteract it.

From "Please Ignore Vera Dietz" by A.S. King

Vocabulary lists containing counteract

"Don't ban peanuts at school"

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Academic Vocabulary, Unit 3

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Part 3 Vocabulary (Unit 3)

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!