Preventable: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when referring to something that can be stopped from happening, especially in the context of health, safety, or disasters.

• Many diseases are preventable with proper hygiene and vaccines

Use for everyday situations where something undesirable can be bypassed or skipped by taking certain actions.

• Traffic jams are avoidable if you leave earlier in the morning

Use when referring to situations or factors that can be managed or kept under control, often in settings that require regulation or supervision.

• Stress is controllable with proper time management and relaxation techniques

Use in situations where a disaster or negative occurrence can be avoided, often in a serious or critical context.

• The crisis was avertable if the government had taken earlier action

Use this word when talking about something negative that can be stopped from happening, usually by taking specific actions in advance.

• Heart diseases are often preventable with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
• Most accidents at home are preventable if proper safety measures are taken.

This word implies that something can be dodged or stayed away from, often implying ease of escape or simple measures.

• Traffic jams are avoidable if you travel during off-peak hours.
• The misunderstanding was avoidable with clear communication.

This word is used when discussing the possibility of stopping something undesirable from occurring through timely intervention.

• The disaster was avertable if the warning signals had been heeded.
• The crisis was avertable with better planning and coordination.