Synonyms of obviate

obviate

verb

ˈäb-vē-ˌāt 

as in to prevent

to keep from happening by taking action in advance

brushing regularly should obviate the need for frequent trips to the dentist

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of obviate

By that time, Brendan Carr will likely be last year’s model, obviating the need for any Carr insurance, as he is joined in retirement by Lina Khan on the far left. — Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Fortune, 30 June 2026

There was that ever-present sense of hope combined with her dedication to being there, to being in the moment, that obviated an overabundance of sympathy. — Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 23 June 2026

Naturally occurring tax revenues derived from economic growth would help obviate the need for Springfield’s seemingly endless quests for novel fees and tax ideas. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 21 June 2026

While there are no modular reactors up and running yet in the United States, Albrecht said some of those in the design phase will use molten salt, helium or liquid metal to help cool the fission process, obviating the need for large amounts of water. — John Aguilar, Denver Post, 7 May 2026

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