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.

Players and referees will need to adjust to several new rules being rolled out at the World Cup, including teams being required to make substitutions inside 10 seconds to prevent time-wasting.

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

"They allow police to step in at an early stage to prevent harm and disrupt organisations while we investigate," he said.

From BBC • Jun. 8, 2026

She assured me she could help prevent these things from happening and give me some things to do if they were to happen.

From "Popcorn" by Rob Harrell

Vocabulary lists containing prevent

"Handle with Care"

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!

The Search Is Over: Synonyms for "Stop"

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!

1.7.B Using Ice to Keep Orange Groves Warm

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!