What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
avert
Example
She managed to avert a disaster by acting quickly. [avert: verb]
Example
The driver swerved to avert a collision with the oncoming car. [avert: verb]
prevent
Example
Regular exercise can help prevent heart disease. [prevent: verb]
Example
The security measures in place are meant to prevent unauthorized access. [prevent: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Prevent is more commonly used than avert in everyday language. Prevent is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while avert is less common and is often associated with more urgent or crisis situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between avert and prevent?
Both avert and prevent can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, avert may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its less frequent usage.
