Find Synonyms

prevent Synonyms

Another word for prevent

Choosing another word for prevent depends on context, so the 18 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
JUMP TO:

• verb (Context 1)

To keep something from happening or arising by taking advance action or precautionary measures.

Usage Example

"Regular handwashing is one of the simplest ways to avert the spread of seasonal illnesses."

Strongest
avert
preclude
forestall
Strong
stave off
head off
ward off
stop
avoid
obviate

• verb (Context 2)

To stop, hinder, or make it impossible for someone to do something.

Usage Example

"Heavy snowfall on the mountain pass prevented the delivery trucks from reaching the town on schedule."

Strongest
hinder
stop
keep
Strong
restrain
inhibit
impede
obstruct
thwart
hold back
block

Opposites of prevent

The opposite of prevent shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

allow
cause
enable
permit
bring about
assist
promote
facilitate
See all opposites of prevent

• Nearby Words

prevalence
prevalent
prevalently
prevent
preventable
preventably
preventatively

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Prevent. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/prevent
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.