Definition
to prevent (somebody) from (doing something): to stop, to block (somebody) from (doing something)
Note: This construction requires a verb in the ING form (when followed by a verb):
I'm trying to prevent him from resigning by offering a pay rise.
My research is on preventing cancer.
to prevent: to stop, to avoid, to block
Pronunciation examples
UK: Eating fresh fruit is supposed to prevent cancer.
US: My wife prevented me from going to the strip club.
- "Doctors believe that drinking red wine in moderation prevents cancer, heart disease and other ailments."
- "It is guaranteed to prevent crime (as long as it's used in combination with several other methods, which I am also researching)."
- "The scarf would protect the birds by preventing them from breathing in infected air particles."
- "In order to prevent the transmission of diseases in the workplace, I have put in place a new initiative that will encourage people to wash their hands after using the bathroom. I am reluctant to reveal too much information regarding the protocol as it may compromise its effectiveness."
- "- Never deactivate the firewall we have installed for you, even if it prevents you from accessing certain websites (which are, as it happens, not appropriate for the workplace)."
- "I would have replied earlier, however my accounting obligations prevented me from checking my email until the early afternoon, and then an unfortunate incident occurred during my bathroom break, when my necktie got caught in the zipper of my pants."
- "The museum staff hopes to discourage criminals from attending the exhibit, and wishes to prevent them from even approaching the venue."
- "I personally have numerous allergies which prevent me from smelling properly -"
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