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to stop the progress or spread of (something)
- efforts to stem the dramatic decline of an endangered species
- block,
- blockade,
- dam,
- delay,
- detain,
- hinder,
- hold,
- hold back,
- impede,
- kibosh,
- obstruct
- break,
- break off,
- break up,
- can
-
[slang],
- cease,
- cut off,
- cut out,
- desist (from),
- discontinue,
- drop,
- end,
- give over,
- halt,
- knock off,
- lay off,
- leave off,
- pack (up or in),
- quit,
- shut off,
- stop
- arrest,
- brake,
- check,
- clamp down,
- rein (in),
- squash,
- squelch,
- stamp,
- stanch
- (or staunch),
- stunt,
- suppress,
- turn back
Frequently Asked Questions About stem
How does the verb stem differ from other similar words?
Some common synonyms of stem are arise, derive, emanate, flow, issue, originate, proceed, rise, and spring. While all these words mean "to come up or out of something into existence," stem implies originating by dividing or branching off from something as an outgrowth or subordinate development.
industries stemming from space research
How are the words arise and rise related as synonyms of stem?
Arise and rise may both convey the fact of coming into existence or notice but rise often stresses gradual growth or ascent.
new questions have arisen
slowly rose to prominence
When can derive be used instead of stem?
The words derive and stem are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, derive implies a prior existence in another form.
the holiday derives from an ancient Roman feast
When is it sensible to use emanate instead of stem?
Although the words emanate and stem have much in common, emanate applies to the coming of something immaterial (such as a thought) from a source.
reports emanating from the capital
How do flow and spring relate to one another, in the sense of stem?
Flow adds to spring a suggestion of abundance or ease of inception.
words flowed easily from her pen
In what contexts can issue take the place of stem?
In some situations, the words issue and stem are roughly equivalent. However, issue suggests emerging from confinement through an outlet.
blood issued from the cut
When would originate be a good substitute for stem?
The meanings of originate and stem largely overlap; however, originate implies a definite source or starting point.
the fire originated in the basement
When might proceed be a better fit than stem?
The words proceed and stem can be used in similar contexts, but proceed stresses place of origin, derivation, parentage, or logical cause.
advice that proceeds from the best of intentions
When is spring a more appropriate choice than stem?
The synonyms spring and stem are sometimes interchangeable, but spring implies rapid or sudden emerging.
an idea that springs to mind
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Time Traveler for stem
The first known use of stem was before the 12th century
See more words from the same century