1
general::
verb ADV. effectively, successfully This new legislation effectively prevents us from trading. | forcibly, physically VERB + PREVENT be able/unable to, can/could No one can prevent you from attending this meeting. | attempt to, seek to, take action/steps to, try to | help (to) A good sun cream will help prevent sunburn. | be designed to | be/do nothing to There was nothing to prevent him setting up in business on the premises. The whole affair is an outrage and the authorities have done nothing to prevent it. PREP. from They took action to prevent the disease from spreading. PHRASES aimed at preventing sth new measures aimed at preventing accidents | action/measures to prevent sth, an attempt to prevent sth, in order to prevent sth Action must be swift in order to prevent further damage.
Oxford Collocations Dictionary