Definition

Intended to stop something from happening or to reduce the risk of something occurring.

Example

Regular exercise is a preventative measure against many health issues.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new preventative measures at the clinic?

Yeah, I read they’re trying to reduce the spread of illness.

I think it’s great that they’re focusing on preventative care.

Absolutely, it can save a lot of people from getting sick.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Preventative → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "venire" (meaning to come). The word "preventative" refers to something that comes before to stop or hinder an event from occurring.

Memory Tip

Think of something that acts 'before' ('pre-') to 'come' ('venire') and stop an event from happening — that's what preventative means.

Visually Confused Words