Synonyms of head off

head off

verb

as in to prevent

to keep from happening by taking action in advance

if we act quickly, we may still be able to head off disaster

Synonyms & Similar Words

• prevent
• avert
• stave off
• preclude
• avoid
• help
• obviate
• forestall
• escape
• provide
• interfere (with)
• anticipate
• ward (off)
• fend (off)
• make up (for)
• save
• compensate (for)
• shake
• evade
• thwart
• nullify
• deter
• neutralize
• hinder
• impede
• retard
• hamper
• offset
• stop
• balk
• deflect
• negate
• block
• prohibit
• elude
• shun
• stall
• frustrate
• forbid
• eschew
• foil
• circumvent
• counteract
• check
• bar
• counterbalance
• duck
• arrest
• inhibit
• dodge
• halt
• shirk
• checkmate
• baffle

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• aid
• assist
• facilitate
• ease
• forward
• smooth
• promote
• advance
• encourage
• further
• let
• leave
• permit
• foster
• cultivate
• abet
• allow
• unclog
• nurture

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of head off

The chances of these complications drop with good prenatal care and thorough screening and monitoring to head off issues early. — Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 29 July 2026

After sitting down to get her hair done, Martha had just enough time to grout her kitchen floors before heading off to New York City to begin her workday. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 22 July 2026

As Prince George heads off to Eton College in September, the prestigious all-boys school has a rule that George’s parents Prince William and Kate Middleton will be a fan of. — Rachel Burchfield, InStyle, 22 July 2026

Yet, with the Gaza death toll exceeding twenty-eight thousand, the amendment had enough support among progressives that Senator Chuck Schumer, the Democratic leader, asked the White House for help heading off an intraparty feud. — David D. Kirkpatrick, New Yorker, 20 July 2026