prevent Definition
to stop something from happening or someone from doing something.
Using prevent: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "prevent" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Washing your hands can help prevent the spread of germs.
Example
The new security measures are intended to prevent terrorist attacks.
Example
She took steps to prevent her children from getting sick.
Example
The law is designed to prevent discrimination against people with disabilities.
prevent Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with prevent
preventive measures
actions taken to stop something bad from happening
Example
The company has implemented preventive measures to avoid data breaches.
medical practices aimed at preventing disease or illness
Example
Preventive medicine includes regular check-ups and vaccinations.
it is better to stop something bad from happening than to deal with it after it has happened
Example
The doctor advised her to exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet, saying that prevention is better than cure.
Origins of prevent
from Latin 'praeventus', meaning 'to come before'
Summary: prevent in Brief
The verb 'prevent' [prɪˈvent] means to stop something from happening or someone from doing something. It is often used in contexts such as health, safety, and security, as in 'Washing your hands can help prevent the spread of germs.' 'Prevent' also appears in phrases like 'preventive measures,' which refers to actions taken to stop something bad from happening.