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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of head off

The 43-year-old actress can probably expect more where that came from considering Kiyan is heading off to college in the fall. —Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 4 Feb. 2025

The budding culture warrior majored in politics and, after graduating in 2003, headed off to his first job as an equity capital market analyst on Wall Street. —Kyle Khan-Mullins, Forbes, 7 Feb. 2025

After a full feed of dry-aged burgers, spaghetti pomodoro, Long Island sea bass, and the eatery’s famous giant chocolate chip cookie dessert, most people headed off into the night in their Choos. —Freya Drohan, Vogue, 7 Feb. 2025

Officials meanwhile said Egypt has launched an diplomatic blitz behind the scenes to try and head off the plan. —Samy Magdy, Chicago Tribune, 6 Feb. 2025