obviate

American  

[ob-vee-eyt] / ˈɒb viˌeɪt /

verb (used with object)

obviated, obviating

1. to anticipate and prevent or eliminate (difficulties, disadvantages, etc.) by effective measures; render unnecessary.

   to obviate the risk of serious injury.

   Synonyms:

   anticipate , avert , preclude

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obviate British  

/ ˈɒbvɪˌeɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to avoid or prevent (a need or difficulty)

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Usage

Only things that have not yet occurred can be obviated. For example, one can obviate a possible future difficulty, but not one that already exists

Other Word Forms

• obviable adjective
• obviation noun
• obviator noun
• preobviate verb (used with object)
• unobviable adjective
• unobviated adjective

Etymology

Origin of obviate

1590–1600; from Latin obviātus, past participle of obviāre “to act contrary to,” derivative of obvius; obvious, -ate ¹

Example Sentences

"As the Court itself acknowledged, Director Wray's testimony could obviate the need for any deposition of former president Trump," Justice Department attorney Christopher Lynch wrote in the filing.

From Salon

That money could go into new precision missiles and upgrades for Marine infantry units he planned to place on islands before a war even started, obviating the need to get there after hostilities begin.

From New York Times

“Couldn’t you have solved this problem or precluded this, obviated this problem by obtaining a general release in your settlement?” he asked.

From Washington Times

We can make grievous mistakes out of love, but that doesn’t obviate our connections or our obligations.

From Los Angeles Times

The bottom of each pie is coated with cornmeal, fine enough to obviate grittiness.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• counteract
• forestall
• preclude