A2verb1K

Prevent

UK /["/prɪˈvent/","/prɪˈvents/","/prɪˈventɪd/","/prɪˈventɪŋ/"]/US /["/prɪˈvent/","/prɪˈvents/","/prɪˈventɪd/","/prɪˈventɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to stop somebody from doing something; to stop something from happening

In simple words: To stop something from happening.

Examples

  • We need to prevent accidents on the road.
  • To prevent illness, wash your hands regularly.
  • The new laws aim to prevent pollution in the city.
  • They took steps to prevent further damage after the storm.
  • You can prevent water from freezing by adding salt.

Usage notes

Use 'prevent' when discussing actions that stop negative events. It is neutral, appropriate for everyday conversation. Avoid in very formal writing; use 'prohibit' or 'forbid' instead.

Grammar pattern

prevent + object + from + gerund

Memory hint

Think 'pre-vent' like putting a fence ('vent') before an event to stop it.

Collocations

  • effectively
  • reliably
  • successfully
  • be able to
  • be unable to
  • can
  • from
  • aimed at preventing something
  • action to prevent something
  • measures to prevent something

Synonyms

  • stop
  • hinder
  • keep from
  • forestall
  • obstruct

Antonyms

  • allow
  • permit
  • facilitate

Common mistakes

  • Incorrectly using 'prevent' without an object, e.g., 'prevent from accidents' instead of 'prevent accidents from happening'.
  • Using the wrong preposition, like 'prevent to' instead of 'prevent from'.
  • Confusing 'prevent' with 'avoid'; 'prevent' is more about stopping something from occurring.