as a preventative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a preventative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing measures taken to prevent something from happening, often in health or safety contexts. Example: "The doctor recommended taking vitamin C as a preventative against colds during the winter months."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some are having the device removed as a preventative measure.

The New York Times

Obesity is substantially lower as a preventative health priority.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I would discourage the use of Tamiflu as a preventative measure," Dr. Kahn said.

The New York Times

While testing has its place, it doesn't quite hold up as a preventative measure, however.

The Guardian - Opinion

Then, fearing Stax would break the agreement, CBS sued Stax in 1974 as a preventative measure.

The Guardian - Music

He called for their removal as a preventative measure, stressing it was "not urgent".

The Guardian

Burn added that he takes low-dose aspirin tablets as a preventative measure.

The Guardian

Some online discussion boards also suggest wearing bikini fit underwear as a preventative and concealing option.

Columbia University

Are there any medications he can take as a preventative measure?

The New York Times

In other words, they have done this as a preventative measure.

Independent

The great sportsman has been having impotence treatment, he "bravely revealed", but only as a preventative measure.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a preventative", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being prevented. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "as a preventative" in very casual conversation can sound overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "just in case" or "to be safe" for better tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a preventative" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun by indicating the purpose or reason for an action. It clarifies that the action is taken to prevent something undesirable from occurring. Ludwig confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a preventative" is a grammatically correct and frequently used prepositional phrase that indicates an action taken to prevent something negative from occurring. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase appears most often in news, scientific, and general content, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While effective in conveying intent, consider context and audience when choosing between "as a preventative" and more informal alternatives. Remember that maintaining clarity about what is being prevented is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a preventive measure

Emphasizes the action is a deliberate step taken to prevent something.

as a safeguard

Highlights protection and security against potential harm.

as a deterrent

Focuses on discouraging or hindering an action or event.

as a prophylactic

Specifically refers to preventing disease or infection; more formal.

as an insurance

Implies a way to mitigate risk or ensure a positive outcome.

as a hedge

Suggests a defensive strategy to avoid losses or negative consequences.

to forestall

More concise, meaning to prevent something by acting in advance.

to preclude

Implies making something impossible in advance.

in anticipation of

Highlights preparing for a future event to mitigate its impact.

to mitigate

Focuses on reducing the severity or impact of something.

FAQs

How can I use "as a preventative" in a sentence?

You can use "as a preventative" to describe an action taken to avoid a negative outcome. For example: "She wore sunscreen "as a preventative" measure against sunburn."

What are some alternatives to saying "as a preventative"?

Alternatives include "as a precaution", "as a preventive measure", or simply "to prevent", depending on the context.

Is "preventative" or "preventive" correct?

Both "preventative" and "preventive" are accepted, but "preventive" is more commonly used. The meaning remains the same regardless of the spelling.

What is the difference between "as a preventative" and "as a protective"?

"As a preventative" implies stopping something from happening, while "as a protective" suggests shielding or guarding against harm. For example, a vaccine is a preventative, while a shield is protective.