Prevent

Pronunciation: /prɪˈvɛnt/

Definitions of prevent

verb to stop something from happening or someone from doing something

Example Sentences

A1 Washing your hands regularly can prevent the spread of germs.

A2 Eating a healthy diet can help prevent certain diseases.

B1 Installing a security system can prevent burglaries in your home.

B2 Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent heart disease.

C1 Implementing strict regulations can prevent environmental damage.

C2 Advanced technology can be used to prevent cyber attacks on a large scale.

Examples of prevent in a Sentence

formal Strict security measures are in place to prevent unauthorized access to the building.

informal Make sure to lock all the doors and windows to prevent any break-ins.

slang I always double-check my work to prevent any screw-ups.

figurative Wearing a helmet can prevent a lot of headaches in the future.

Grammatical Forms of prevent

• past tense: prevented
• plural: prevents
• comparative: more preventive
• superlative: most preventive
• present tense: prevent
• future tense: will prevent
• perfect tense: have prevented
• continuous tense: is preventing
• singular: prevents
• positive degree: prevent
• infinitive: to prevent
• gerund: preventing
• participle: prevented

Origin and Evolution of prevent

First Known Use: 1300 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'prevent' originated from the Latin word 'praeventus', which is a combination of 'prae' meaning 'before' and 'venire' meaning 'to come'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in the sense of 'to go before' or 'anticipate', the word 'prevent' evolved over time to mean 'to hinder', 'to stop from happening', or 'to keep from occurring'.