What is prevent? Pronunciation and usage in English

prevent means . Learn how to pronounce and use prevent through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of prevent

preventverb

/prɪˈvɛnt/
Definition & pronunciation of prevent

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "prevent" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "pre-": This part is pronounced like "preh" – similar to the "pre" in "prepare." Think of a quick, short "h" sound.
  • "vent": This is the trickiest part. It's pronounced like "vent" as in “ventilation”.

2. Putting it Together:

The whole word is pronounced something like: “preh-vent”

3. Emphasis & Breakdown:

  • Stress: The stress is on the first syllable, "preh."
  • Quick Transition: The "h" in "preh" blends quickly into the "vent" sound. Don't pronounce a long pause between the two parts.

Here are a few examples of how it sounds:

Tips for Learners:

  • Focus on the "preh" sound: Really make that short "h" sound.
  • Don't over-articulate: It's a smooth transition, not a break.
  • Practice repeatedly: Say it out loud several times. Record yourself and compare it to a native speaker.

Would you like me to:

  • Break down any specific part of the pronunciation further?
  • Give you some sentences using the word "prevent"?

Usage and examples with the word prevent in English

Let's break down how to use the word "prevent" in English. It's a versatile word with a few slightly different meanings, but the core idea is always about stopping something from happening.

1. Core Meaning: To Stop Something From Happening

This is the most common use. "Prevent" means to stop something from happening or occurring.

  • Example: "We need to prevent flooding by building a dam." (Stopping the flooding)
  • Example: "The new law will prevent people from smoking in public places." (Stopping people from smoking)
  • Example: “Taking precautions will prevent illness.” (Stopping you from getting sick)

2. Using "Prevent" with "From"

Often, "prevent" is followed by the preposition "from." This emphasizes what is being stopped.

  • Example: "The rain prevented us from going to the park." (The rain stopped us from going)
  • Example: “Security measures prevented the thief from stealing the painting.” (Security measures stopped the thief from stealing)

3. Different Forms of the Word

  • Prevented: Past tense – "The storm prevented us from traveling."
  • Prevention: Noun – "Vaccination is a form of prevention." (It's a way to stop something from happening.)
  • Preventative: Adjective – “A preventative measure is a step taken to stop something.” (e.g., "a preventative vaccination")

4. Common Ways to Use "Prevent" in Phrases

  • Prevent a disaster: "Emergency services work to prevent a disaster."
  • Prevent a problem: “The manager tried to prevent a problem from arising.”
  • Prevent someone from doing something: "The security guard prevented him from leaving the building."
  • Preventative care: "Regular check-ups are preventative care." (Taking action to avoid illness or problems)

5. Synonyms for "Prevent"

Here are some words that have a similar meaning to "prevent," depending on the context:

  • Stop
  • Avoid
  • Halt
  • Block
  • Deter
  • Discourage

Let's look at some examples to solidify this:

  • Situation: You're worried about your car breaking down.

    • Using "prevent": "I can prevent my car from breaking down by getting regular maintenance."

  • Situation: You want to avoid getting a cold.

    • Using "prevent": “Washing your hands frequently can prevent colds.”

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of sentence are you trying to write that uses "prevent"? (e.g., a formal email, a casual conversation, a story?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word prevent

Comment ()