prevent
verb (used with object)
to keep from occurring; avert; hinder.
had prevented
-
past perfectof prevent.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"It did work, the system worked," director Sean Curran told reporters on Wednesday, insisting that a cordon had prevented the alleged attacker from reaching the main hall where the dinner was taking place in April.
From Barron's ● Jul. 24, 2026
The group later clarified that police had attempted to take him into custody but protesters had prevented it.
From BBC ● Jul. 20, 2026
Call me naive, but that’s what I thought most sports betting would look like after the Supreme Court struck down a law in 2018 that had prevented states from legalizing the practice.
From Slate ● Apr. 28, 2026
Director Lutfi had previously told AFP that challenges including actors' fears of the Assad authorities' reaction had prevented filming until after his ouster.
From Barron's ● Feb. 22, 2026
Their angles had prevented their seeing that particular fissure in the rocks.
From "The Martian Chronicles" by Ray Bradbury
