# forestall

/fɔɹˈstɔɫ/ (US) · /fɔːstˈɔːl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/forestall
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

to stop something bad from happening by acting early. You do something now to prevent a problem later.

For teachers: to prevent or hinder an anticipated event by acting in advance. Implies timely intervention to block an unwanted outcome.

## Examples

- She drinks water early to forestall a headache.
- The company hired extra staff to forestall delays during the busy holiday season.
- Diplomats rushed to forestall a wider conflict by brokering a ceasefire before border skirmishes could escalate into full war.

## Synonyms

prevent, avert, preempt

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and takes a direct object.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.