Synonyms of head off

head off

verb

as in to prevent

to keep from happening by taking action in advance

if we act quickly, we may still be able to head off disaster

Synonyms & Similar Words

• prevent
• avert
• stave off
• preclude
• avoid
• help
• obviate
• forestall
• escape
• provide
• interfere (with)
• anticipate
• ward (off)
• fend (off)
• make up (for)
• save
• compensate (for)
• shake
• evade
• thwart
• nullify
• deter
• neutralize
• hinder
• impede
• retard
• hamper
• offset
• stop
• balk
• deflect
• negate
• block
• prohibit
• elude
• shun
• stall
• frustrate
• forbid
• eschew
• foil
• circumvent
• counteract
• check
• bar
• counterbalance
• duck
• arrest
• inhibit
• dodge
• halt
• shirk
• checkmate
• baffle

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• aid
• assist
• facilitate
• ease
• forward
• smooth
• promote
• advance
• encourage
• further
• let
• leave
• permit
• foster
• cultivate
• abet
• allow
• unclog
• nurture

Examples of head off in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Looking nationally, despite evidence that screening patients for suicidal thoughts during medical visits helps head off catastrophe, health professionals are not mandated to do so. —Cheryl Platzman Weinstock, USA TODAY, 22 Sep. 2024

Governments have every incentive to head off this new threat while there’s still time. —Bloomberg Opinion, Twin Cities, 19 Sep. 2024

The two faced off in a bloody fight with multiple stabbings, burns, and ultimately, Lois blew Megan’s head off. —Emily Longeretta, Variety, 17 Oct. 2024

Also, remove any branch that rubs on another or heads off in the wrong direction. —Lauren David, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Oct. 2024