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

From that central hive, passengers can head off to, say, the two-story beach club with dining at water level (and space for 24). — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 25 Sep. 2026

By contrast, if Weiss is not getting a promotion, Ellison would be wise to say something the minute the deal is officially closed, heading off speculation about CNN’s future and preventing possible talent defections at the network. — Josef Adalian, Vulture, 24 Sep. 2026

After the nuptials, the newlyweds headed off on a honeymoon in Llandudno, a seaside resort on the north coast of Wales. — Erin Clack, PEOPLE, 24 Sep. 2026

Most gambling sites, including FanDuel and Kalshi, offer tools to head off trouble, such as budgeting features, voluntary account suspensions and programs that flag changes in behavior. — Dan Horn, Cincinnati Enquirer, 20 Sep. 2026