a preventive measure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a preventive measure' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an action or policy that helps to prevent a possible problem or issue. For example: The city implemented a preventive measure by installing additional street lights in the area.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"As far as a preventive measure, these things are very hard to prevent.

The New York Times

As a preventive measure, the act wasn't terribly effective.

The Guardian - Opinion

Estrosi said the ban was a preventive measure.

The Guardian

Why fixate on genomics as a preventive measure?

The Guardian - Opinion

All had their breasts removed as a preventive measure from 1960 to 1993.

The New York Times - Health

These honesty cafes are a preventive measure in our fight against corruption".

The New York Times

To suddenly start drinking large quantities of coffee is still really premature as a preventive measure".

The New York Times - Health

Indeed, some doctors prescribe the Pill to high-risk patients as a preventive measure.

The New York Times - Health

By 1700, variolation — deliberate infection with smallpox — had been tried successfully as a preventive measure.

The New Yorker

Only now was there evidence to support introducing them into the diet as a preventive measure.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Actually supporters of gun controls only ask for registration of all firearms-a preventive measure.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing for general audiences, ensure that "a preventive measure" is followed by a clear explanation of what it is preventing.

Common error

Avoid using "a preventive measure" interchangeably with terms like "a reactive solution". "A preventive measure" should always describe an action taken before a problem occurs, not in response to one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a preventive measure" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. It identifies an action or strategy designed to avert a potential problem. Ludwig AI confirms this is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a preventive measure" is a noun phrase used to describe an action taken to avoid a potential problem. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used in English. It is most commonly found in News & Media, Science and Formal & Business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it clearly indicates the action intended to prevent a specific problem and don't confuse it with similar terms such as "reactive solution". Alternative phrases include "a prophylactic measure" or "a protective step", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a prophylactic measure

Emphasizes preventing disease or other undesirable outcomes, similar to a medical context.

a protective step

Highlights the act of shielding or defending against potential harm.

a precautionary step

Implies carefulness and foresight to avert risks or dangers.

a proactive approach

Focuses on taking initiative to control a situation and prevent problems before they arise.

a preemptive action

Suggests acting in advance to prevent an anticipated action, typically in a more forceful or strategic way.

a defensive strategy

Highlights a plan to protect against attack or harm.

a deterrent tactic

Emphasizes discouraging unwanted behavior or actions through preventative means.

a safeguard

Focuses on ensuring safety and security against potential threats.

an ounce of prevention

A proverb emphasizing that it is better to prevent something from happening than to deal with the consequences later.

early intervention

Highlights taking action at the initial stages of a potential problem to minimize its impact.

FAQs

How can I use "a preventive measure" in a sentence?

You can use "a preventive measure" to describe actions taken to avoid potential problems. For instance, "Wearing sunscreen is "a preventive measure" against sunburn".

What are some alternatives to "a preventive measure"?

Alternatives include "a prophylactic measure", "a precautionary step", or "a protective step". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "preventative measure" correct, or should I always use "preventive measure"?

"Preventive measure" is generally preferred, although "preventative measure" is also accepted. "Preventive" is more common and considered more grammatically sound.

What is the difference between "a preventive measure" and "a reactive solution"?

"A preventive measure" is taken before a problem arises to avoid it, while "a reactive solution" is implemented in response to an existing problem.