forestall

[fɔːˈstɔːl]

forestall Definition

prevent or obstruct (something anticipated) by taking action ahead of time.

Using forestall: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "forestall" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The company took steps to forestall a hostile takeover.

  • Example

    He forestalled any attempts at criticism by admitting his mistakes first.

  • Example

    The government implemented measures to forestall an economic crisis.

  • Example

    She tried to forestall the inevitable by making excuses.

forestall Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for forestall

Antonyms for forestall

Phrases with forestall

  • take action to prevent the worst possible outcome from happening

    Example

    The team worked hard to forestall the worst and managed to turn the game around.

  • forestall someone's plans

    prevent someone from carrying out their intended course of action

    Example

    The police acted quickly to forestall the terrorists' plans.

  • gain an advantage over one's competitors by taking action before they do

    Example

    The company launched a new product to forestall the competition and increase its market share.

Origins of forestall

from Old English 'foresteallian', meaning 'to intercept'

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Summary: forestall in Brief

'Forestall' [fɔːˈstɔːl] means to prevent or obstruct something anticipated by taking action ahead of time. It is often used in business, politics, and personal situations to gain an advantage or avoid negative outcomes. Examples include 'The company took steps to forestall a hostile takeover' and 'She tried to forestall the inevitable by making excuses.' Phrases like 'forestall the worst' and 'forestall someone's plans' illustrate the range of applications for this verb.