Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Prevent” — 5 Other Ways to Say It
To keep something bad from happening. To stop something before it occurs.
Meaning of Prevent
To stop or hinder something from happening; to make it impossible for something to occur.
How to Pronounce Prevent
IPA: /prɪˈvɛnt/ Stress: oO
Stress on second syllable. The 'e' in first syllable is a schwa sound.
5 Synonyms for Prevent — Words Similar to Prevent
Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.
stop
/stɑp/When something stops, it no longer moves or continues doing what it was doing.
Example: Please stop talking and listen to me.
avoid
/əˈvɔɪd/To keep away from someone or something, or to prevent something bad from occurring.
Example: I try to avoid eating too much sugar.
hinder
/ˈhɪndər/To make something harder or slower. To get in the way of something someone is trying to do.
Example: Poor infrastructure hindered economic development in rural areas.
block
/blɒk/a thick, solid piece of something like wood or stone; also a section of city streets enclosed by roads.
Example: The construction worker moved a large concrete block.
impede
/ɪmˈpiːd/To slow down or stop something from happening or moving forward. To get in the way or create a blockage.
Example: Regulatory obstacles impede the introduction of new technologies in the market.
Smart Synonyms for Prevent — When to Use Each
stop
more general; broader meaning of halting action
avoid
for passive prevention or evasion strategies
hinder
when something slows or impedes progress
Antonyms of Prevent — Opposite Words
How to Use Prevent and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- Regular exercise can prevent illness. A2
- We must prevent accidents at the workplace. B1
- Good planning prevented the disaster from occurring. B1
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Prevent
What is another word for "prevent"?
Common synonyms for "prevent" include: stop, avoid, hinder, block, impede.
What can I say instead of "prevent"?
Try one of these alternatives: stop, avoid, hinder, block, impede. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "prevent" formal or informal?
"prevent" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "prevent" instead of "stop"?
Use "prevent" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "stop" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.
What are the antonyms of "prevent"?
Words with the opposite meaning of "prevent" include: allow, permit.