prevent
verb (used with object)
to keep from occurring; avert; hinder.
was preventing
-
past progressiveof prevent.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
The experts highlighted reports that fuel scarcity was preventing people from reaching hospitals and children from attending school.
From Barron's ● May 7, 2026
John Robinson contested Allan’s allegations, saying in his own court filing that his brother was preventing the company from realizing its full value.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 5, 2026
PHS said the new data showed that the vaccine was preventing severe flu, with children 78% less likely to be admitted to hospital if vaccinated.
From BBC ● Dec. 11, 2025
An aide for Johnson previously said that the government shutdown was preventing Johnson from swearing her in, while Johnson said he is ready to swear her in “as soon as she wants.”
From Salon ● Oct. 15, 2025
It would not have come as a surprise to Gregor if she had not come in, since his position was preventing her from opening the window immediately.
From "The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka
