Prevent: meaning, definitions and examples

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prevent

 

[ prɪˈvɛnt ]

Verb / Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Verb

from danger

To stop something from happening or someone from doing something by taking action in advance.

Synonyms

avoid, hinder, stop, thwart

Examples of usage

  • He installed an alarm system to prevent burglaries.
  • She took vitamins to prevent getting sick.
  • Regular exercise can help prevent heart disease.
  • The new law aims to prevent discrimination in the workplace.
Context #2 | Verb

from doing something

To make it impossible for something to happen or someone to do something, especially something bad.

Synonyms

bar, forbid, obstruct, prohibit

Examples of usage

  • The lock on the door prevents it from opening.
  • His injury prevented him from playing in the game.
  • She wore sunglasses to prevent herself from squinting in the sun.
Context #3 | Noun

from happening

Something that is done to stop an unwanted event from happening.

Synonyms

defence, protection, safeguard

Examples of usage

  • Vaccines are a prevention against disease.
  • Fire alarms are a prevention against fires.

Translations

Translations of the word "prevent" in other languages:

🇵🇹 prevenir

🇮🇳 रोकना

🇩🇪 verhindern

🇮🇩 mencegah

🇺🇦 запобігати

🇵🇱 zapobiegać

🇯🇵 防ぐ (ふせぐ)

🇫🇷 prévenir

🇪🇸 prevenir

🇹🇷 önlemek

🇰🇷 방지하다

🇸🇦 منع

🇨🇿 zabránit

🇸🇰 zabrániť

🇨🇳 预防 (yùfáng)

🇸🇮 preprečiti

🇮🇸 koma í veg fyrir

🇰🇿 алдын алу

🇬🇪 თავიდან აცილება

🇦🇿 qarşısını almaq

🇲🇽 prevenir

Etymology

The word 'prevent' originated from the Latin word 'praeventus', which means 'to come before' or 'anticipate'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century. The concept of prevention has always been important in various aspects of life, from health to security. By taking action in advance, people can avoid negative consequences and maintain safety. The word 'prevent' continues to be widely used in discussions about risk management and proactive measures.

See also: invent, vent, ventilate, ventilation, ventral, venture.

Word Frequency Rank

At #949 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.