PREVENT Synonyms: 73 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

prevent

verb

pri-ˈvent

Definition of prevent next

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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of prevent Spring windstorms, heat and dry air can accelerate the plants’ life cycle or prevent new flowers from developing. —

Cierra Morgan, Los Angeles Times, 11 Mar. 2026 The loud lime shade is fitting for a vibrant party, while the wax construction prevents drips, so the area stays clean and safe all night. —

Bestreviews, Mercury News, 11 Mar. 2026 The study recommends that coaches and athletes monitor the mileage of individual runs, which may actually be more important for preventing injury. —

Emma Loewe, Outside, 11 Mar. 2026 Catching these issues early can save money and prevent interior water damage later. —

Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 11 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for prevent

Recent Examples of Synonyms for prevent

Verb

Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is paramount in averting wildfires during these perilous conditions.

— KANSAS CITY STAR WEATHER BOT, Kansas City Star, 11 Mar. 2026
By law, the prime minister’s coalition needs to pass a budget by the end of this month in order to avert mandatory new elections.

— Yair Rosenberg, The Atlantic, 11 Mar. 2026