Preventive: meaning, definitions and examples

Utilized for actions or measures taken to stop something from happening, especially concerning health or safety.

• Preventive measures are necessary to avoid the spread of the disease.
• The government issued a preventive evacuation order due to the approaching hurricane.

Primarily used in medical or health-related contexts to describe measures designed to prevent diseases or infections.

• The doctor recommended a prophylactic treatment to prevent infection.
• Vaccinations serve a prophylactic role in disease control.

Used when referring to actions taken with the aim of avoiding potential danger or risk, often indicating an element of caution or preparation for possible outcomes.

• Wearing a helmet while biking is a precautionary step to prevent head injuries.
• He took precautionary measures by saving money for emergencies.

Describes actions, measures, or items designed to protect something or someone from harm, danger, or damage.

• He wore protective gear while working in the construction site.
• The parents were very protective of their children.

Applied to actions taken to counter an anticipated threat or to forestall an event before it occurs, often with a strategic or proactive aspect.

• The military launched a preemptive strike to neutralize the enemy threat.
• She made a preemptive decision to address the issue before it escalated.