Meaning & Definition of word "Preventive"

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    Preventive

    /prɪˈvɛn.tɪv/

    adjective:

    • 1. tending to prevent something, especially to prevent disease or problems.
      • Example: The doctor recommended a preventive measure to reduce the risk of heart disease.
    • 2. aimed at stopping something from happening.
      • Example: Preventive maintenance on the machinery can save the company from costly repairs later.
    • 3. designed to stop or hinder a situation from worsening.
      • Example: The preventive approach taken by the government helped control the outbreak of the virus.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'praeventivus', from 'praevenire' meaning 'to come before'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    preventive medicine:

    Healthcare that focuses on disease prevention.

    preventive action:

    Steps taken to prevent an undesirable outcome.

    preventive maintenance:

    Regular maintenance to prevent equipment failures.

    Related Words

    protection:

    The act of keeping something safe from harm.

    caution:

    Care taken to avoid danger or mistakes.

    intervention:

    The act of intervening to prevent an event.

    Slang Meanings of preventive

    Meaning: Prevention-focused approach

    Example Sentence: Let's take a preventive strategy to avoid that issue again.