What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
forestall
Example
The company implemented new security measures to forestall any potential cyber attacks. [forestall: verb]
Example
His quick thinking helped forestall a potential disaster. [forestalling: gerund or present participle]
impede
Example
The heavy traffic impeded our journey to the airport. [impeded: past tense]
Example
The construction work is impeding the flow of traffic in the area. [impede: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Impede is more commonly used than forestall in everyday language. Impede is a more general term that covers a wide range of situations, while forestall is less common and is typically used in specific contexts where preventative measures are necessary.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between forestall and impede?
Forestall is typically associated with a formal or professional tone, while impede can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
