prevention - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
prevention Word Meanings
- The act of stopping something bad from happening before it occurs.
- Actions or steps taken to reduce risk or protect health, safety, or well-being.
- Figurative use: a strategy or program aimed at preventing problems or mistakes.
prevention Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
prevention Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/prɪˈvɛnʃən/
US
/prɪˈvɛnʃən/
prevention Word Etymology
Root decomposition: the word is built from the prefix pre- meaning before, the root ven- (from Latin venire, to come), plus the noun-forming suffix -tion. Historical origin: from Latin praevenire 'to come before', via Old French prevention, into English. Memory image: picture a sturdy gate standing before a river, stopping floods before they arrive—prevention in action.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I squat a little and place the first-aid kit on the shelf, then move the strap so it won’t dangle. The door opens a crack, I pull it gently to keep the hallway clear, and I adjust the lock with a careful turn of the wrist. I repeat the small routine: check the batteries, tidy the cords, keep things in order. That quiet sequence feels like a habit that stops bad things from happening.
Real Context
Prevention is the act of stopping something bad from happening before it occurs. It includes actions or steps taken to reduce risk or protect health, safety, or well-being. In health care, prevention covers vaccines, screenings, and lifestyle changes; in public policy, prevention programs aim to lessen crime, disasters, or harm by addressing root causes. The term also appears in figurative uses, describing strategies or programs designed to prevent problems or mistakes. The word comes from the prefix pre- meaning before, ven- from Latin venire, to come, and the noun-forming suffix -tion. Understanding prevention means planning ahead and investing in safeguards rather than reacting after problems arise.
Usage Reminders
- Remember prevention is a noun, not a verb.
- Common collocations include prevention measures, prevention programs, and disease prevention.
- Distinguish prevent (verb) from prevention (noun).
- Use prevention to express proactive steps, not mere avoidance.
- In health contexts, you’ll see phrases like primary prevention and secondary prevention.
Common Misconceptions
- Prevention equals avoidance; they are not the same thing.
- Prevention only applies to health or medicine and not other areas like safety or policy.
- Confusing prevention with ‘prevent’ as a verb in all contexts.
- Thinking prevention guarantees zero risk rather than reducing risk.
- Assuming prevention is a one-time action rather than an ongoing program.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, prevention is often thought of as future planning and formal programs; the abstract noun can appear in many formal phrases (prevention measures, prevention programs, disease prevention). Beware learners may over- or under-generalize to everyday 'avoidance' or confuse with 'prevent' as a verb.
Learning Tips
- Practice using prevention with health, safety, and policy contexts.
- Learn common collocations: prevention measures, prevention programs, disease prevention.
- Differentiate prevent (verb) from prevention (noun) in sentences.
- Create multiple example sentences to solidify usage.
- Note phrases like primary prevention and secondary prevention in health contexts.
- Read articles about public health to see natural usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'prevention'?
A.The act of stopping something from happening
B.The act of running away from danger
C.The act of causing harm intentionally
D.The act of accepting defeat
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'prevention' used correctly?
A.The prevention of the disease was successful
B.She enjoyed the prevention of the movie
C.He preventioned the fire from spreading
D.They preventioned the accident from happening
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'prevention'?
A.Cause
B.Help
C.Avoidance
D.Result
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'prevention'?
A.Protection
B.Facilitation
C.Support
D.Promotion
Step 5: Mastery
How is 'prevention' applied in real-world situations?
A.By ignoring potential risks
B.By implementing safety measures to prevent accidents
C.By waiting for problems to occur before taking action
D.By actively causing harm
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App