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.

"As a result, those individuals were unaware of the breach and deprived of the opportunity to take steps to prevent secondary harm."

From Barron's • Jun. 11, 2026

If structural barriers prevent such local electricity generation, companies can claim credit for PPAs outside of where they operate.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

Environmental groups have renewed calls for the government to do more to prevent the deaths of thousands of dolphins, whales and seabirds accidentally caught in fishing nets in UK waters.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

Sheinbaum said fences will be installed to prevent confrontations between police and protesters in the Zócalo.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

“I couldn’t sleep the whole night, thinking about how to prevent my bicycle from being taken from me,” he said.

From "Hitler Youth: Growing Up in Hitler's Shadow" by Susan Campbell Bartoletti

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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