Preventing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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preventing

[prษชหˆvษ›ntษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

taking action

Preventing refers to the act of stopping something from happening or arising. It is typically used in contexts where proactive measures are taken to avert undesirable outcomes. This can apply to various scenarios, including the prevention of disease, accidents, or crime. By implementing preventative strategies, individuals or organizations can mitigate risks and enhance safety and well-being.

Synonyms

averting, forestalling, hindering, prohibiting, stopping.

Examples of usage

  • Preventing illness through vaccination is essential.
  • The local government is focused on preventing crime in the area.
  • Preventing accidents in the workplace is a priority.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Health

  • Vaccines are a key method in preventing diseases by training the body to recognize harmful germs.
  • Regular exercise can help in preventing heart disease and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
  • Good hygiene practices, like brushing your teeth daily, are effective in preventing cavities and oral diseases.

Education

  • Preventing bullying in schools often involves teaching students about empathy and respect.
  • In educational settings, providing resources can help in preventing dropout rates by supporting at-risk students.
  • Programs focused on preventing teen pregnancy emphasize education about safe practices and choices.

Environmental Science

  • Conservation efforts aim at preventing habitat loss, ensuring that ecosystems remain balanced.
  • Recycling and reducing waste are important steps in preventing pollution and protecting the environment.
  • Sustainable practices in agriculture can prevent soil degradation and sustain food production for the future.

Psychology

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can prevent the escalation of anxiety disorders by changing negative thought patterns.
  • Mindfulness techniques teach individuals how to prevent stress and manage emotions more effectively.
  • Developing coping strategies is crucial for preventing mental health issues before they develop into more serious conditions.

Technology

  • Antivirus software works to prevent malware from infecting computers and networks.
  • Firewalls are used in network security to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information.
  • Regular software updates help prevent vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers.

Origin of 'preventing'

The word 'prevent' stems from the Latin 'praevenire', which means 'to come before' or 'to anticipate'. The term evolved through the Old French 'prevenir', eventually entering the English language in the late Middle Ages. Its use in English has long been associated with the idea of taking action to stop something from taking place. Over the centuries, the concept of prevention has become increasingly relevant in various fields, such as medicine, public safety, and environmental science. As society has progressed, so too has the understanding of how preventive actions can significantly improve outcomes, leading to the modern emphasis on prevention in health care and safety protocols.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,281, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.