Synonyms of prevent

prevent

verb

pri-ˈvent 

as in to avert

to keep from happening by taking action in advance

a lot of problems would have been prevented if we'd just prepared better

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb prevent differ from other similar words?

The words anticipate and forestall are common synonyms of prevent. While all three words mean "to deal with beforehand," prevent implies taking advance measures against something possible or probable.

measures taken to prevent leaks

When can anticipate be used instead of prevent?

The synonyms anticipate and prevent are sometimes interchangeable, but anticipate may imply merely getting ahead of another by being a precursor or forerunner or it may imply checking another's intention by acting first.

anticipated the question by making a statement

When is forestall a more appropriate choice than prevent?

The words forestall and prevent can be used in similar contexts, but forestall implies a getting ahead so as to stop or interrupt something in its course.

hoped to forestall the sale

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of prevent

Use folic acid for general supplementation, pregnancy, or to prevent deficiency—unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise. —Trang Tran, Verywell Health, 17 Oct. 2025

McCormick also recommends using slow cookers or pressure cookers, which add moisture and help prevent excessive browning. —Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 17 Oct. 2025

Then a dribble past four into the penalty area that ends with Diego Lopez producing a great save to prevent a goal of a lifetime. —Jordan Campbell, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2025

For more information on good biosecurity measures for helping prevent the spread of HPAI, visit the Indiana State Board of Animal Health's website. —Katie Wiseman, IndyStar, 17 Oct. 2025