prevailing
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.existing or happening most of the time in a specific place.
adj.predominant or most frequent within a particular area or period.
Simple“The prevailing wind in this coastal town usually blows from the west.”
In context“The architect oriented the building to account for the prevailing winds, ensuring natural ventilation throughout the summer months.”
UsageOften used to describe weather patterns or environmental conditions.
Synonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.the most common way of thinking or acting at a certain time.
adj.denoting the generally accepted or most influential opinion, attitude, or style at a given time.
Simple“The prevailing view among experts is that the economy will improve next year.”
In context“Despite the prevailing mood of optimism in the markets, several senior analysts warned of a potential correction in the tech sector.”
UsageFrequently collocates with 'view', 'mood', 'attitude', or 'opinion'.
- 03 C1 Advanced
v.the act of being stronger or more successful than others.
v.the present participle of 'prevail', meaning to prove superior in strength or influence.
Simple“After a long struggle, justice is finally prevailing in the court case.”
In context“The logic of the argument is prevailing over emotional appeals, leading the committee toward a more rational consensus.”
UsageOften used with the preposition 'over'.
Synonyms
Usage concurrent prevailing · prevailing condition
“He goes against prevailing norms of sexual and religious purity.”
“Predicting a storm’s track—which direction it’s traveling—requires data about weather on a global scale, taking in information such as the location of cold fronts and prevailing winds.”
By surface analysis, prevail + -ing.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.