# preventative

/pɹiˈvɛntətɪv/ (US) · /pɹɪvˈɛntətˌɪv/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/preventative
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

used to stop something bad from happening before it starts. You use this to describe medicine, rules, or actions that keep you safe or healthy.

For teachers: intended to keep something from happening, especially something undesirable like disease or accidents. Often used attributively before a noun.

## Examples

- Regular exercise is a great preventative measure for many health issues.
- The company installed new software as a preventative step against future cyber attacks.
- Public health officials argue that investing in preventative care significantly reduces the long-term financial burden on the national healthcare system by catching chronic conditions early.

## Usage notes

- Often used interchangeably with 'preventive'; both are correct, though 'preventive' is more common in academic writing.

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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.