Synonyms of counteract

counteract

verb

ˌkau̇n-tər-ˈakt 

as in to offset

to balance with an equal force so as to make ineffective

this medication will counteract the symptoms but it won't kill the infection

Synonyms & Similar Words

• offset
• neutralize
• correct
• counterbalance
• outweigh
• relieve
• compensate (for)
• make up (for)
• cancel (out)
• annul
• remedy
• nullify
• negative
• counterpoise
• invalidate
• negate
• redeem
• redress
• atone (for)
• overrule
• neuter
• override
• outbalance

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of counteract

Anecdotally, schools with bell-to-bell bans report livelier lunchtime conversations, and some research suggests that time and distance are critical for counteracting phones’ addictive tendencies. —Theo Peck-Suzuki, Hartford Courant, 9 Mar. 2026

This serum purportedly counteracts that, working to de-age the scalp, thus thickening and strengthening strands. —Tamim Alnuweiri, InStyle, 6 Mar. 2026

Speaking of trust, while collagen supplements may be all over your Instagram feed, there’s very little evidence that mixing powdered collagen into your coffee or taking it in pill form will do anything to counteract the collagen loss caused by menopause. —Elizabeth Gulino, Allure, 6 Mar. 2026

Upon learning about the technique, Vogue’s beauty shopping editor Kiana Murden realized this has been her secret to counteracting dryness all along. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 6 Mar. 2026