C1noun2K

Prevention

UK /["/prɪˈvenʃn/"]/US /["/prɪˈvenʃn/"]/

Definition

the act of stopping something bad from happening

In simple words: Stopping something from happening.

Examples

  • **accident/crime prevention**
  • the prevention of disease
  • a fire prevention officer
  • a diabetes prevention programme
  • Prevention is better than cure, so start looking after your heart now.
  • Prevention is better than cure, so start taking care of yourself.

Usage notes

Used in health, safety, and risk contexts. Not typically used in casual conversation. Appropriate in formal writing and discussions about policy or health.

Grammar pattern

prevention + of + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'prevent' like wearing a seatbelt to avoid accidents.

Collocations

  • accident
  • crime
  • disease
  • efforts
  • measures
  • programme/​program

Synonyms

  • avoidance
  • stopping
  • hindrance
  • protection
  • guarding

Antonyms

  • cause
  • risk

Common mistakes

  • Using 'preventative' instead of 'prevention'.
  • Confusing 'prevention' with 'intervention'.
  • Saying 'prevention of accidents' instead of just 'prevention'.