Definitions and Examples of disable, hinder, prevent
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To make something unable to function properly.
Example
The virus disabled his computer, making it impossible for him to work.
To create difficulties or obstacles that slow down or prevent progress.
Example
The heavy rain hindered their journey, causing them to arrive late.
To stop something from happening; to keep something from occurring.
Example
Wearing a mask can prevent the spread of germs and viruses.
Key Differences: disable vs hinder vs prevent
- 1Disable implies that something is made unable to function properly.
- 2Hinder suggests that something is slowed down or prevented from progressing.
- 3Prevent means to stop something from happening altogether.
Effective Usage of disable, hinder, prevent
- 1Technology: Use disable when referring to technical issues or problems with devices.
- 2Obstacles: Use hinder when referring to obstacles or difficulties that slow down progress.
- 3Safety: Use prevent when referring to measures taken to stop something harmful from happening.
Remember this!
The antonyms of enable have distinct meanings. Disable implies something is made unable to function properly, hinder suggests something is slowed down or prevented from progressing, and prevent means to stop something from happening altogether. Use these words in different contexts such as technology, obstacles, and safety to convey the intended meaning effectively.
