preventative measure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "preventative measure" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to a strategy, policy, or action implemented to help prevent a problem or harm, such as: "The government has put in place a number of preventative measures to help reduce the spread of the virus."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Another important preventative measure is training.

Independent

Some are having the device removed as a preventative measure.

The New York Times

A spokesman for the safety authority, known as CASA, said the investigation was a preventative measure.

The New York Times

The failure of a long-trusted preventative measure will therefore cause dismay.

The Guardian

Mr. Franks called it a "preventative measure that will allow fresh idealism into the appropriations process".

The New York Times

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

The New York Times

Right now the preventative measure appears to be working, with hospital admissions down to single figures.

The Guardian

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

The Guardian - Opinion

"It's a preventative measure," Steve Leroy, a spokesman for Coca-Cola Belgium, said.

The New York Times

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing long-term strategies for avoiding negative outcomes, use "preventative measure" to emphasize proactive planning and implementation.

Common error

Avoid using "preventative measure" when describing actions taken after a problem has already occurred. Instead, opt for terms like "corrective action" or "remedial step".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preventative measure" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes an action or strategy intended to prevent something undesirable from happening. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "preventative measure" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes an action taken to prevent a negative outcome. Its usage spans across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. While similar phrases like "prophylactic measure" and "precautionary step" exist, it's essential to use "preventative measure" when discussing proactive steps taken before a problem occurs, rather than reactive solutions. Remember to avoid overuse in reactive situations and instead opt for phrases like "corrective action". This phrase is an effective tool for emphasizing proactive planning and implementation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prophylactic measure

Focuses on medical or health-related prevention, often implying a more formal or clinical context.

precautionary step

Emphasizes the act of taking a step or action as a precaution.

protective action

Highlights the act of protecting something from harm.

risk mitigation strategy

Implies a more formal and strategic approach to reducing risk.

safety precaution

Specifically relates to safety and avoiding potential hazards.

deterrent measure

Focuses on discouraging or preventing an action through fear of consequences.

early intervention

Emphasizes taking action at an early stage to prevent a problem from escalating.

damage control

Actions taken to limit damage already in progress.

preemptive action

Taking action before someone else does.

forestalling action

Emphasizes preventing something from happening by taking action in advance.

FAQs

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

You can use "preventative measure" to describe an action taken to prevent something negative from happening. For example, "Washing your hands is a key preventative measure against the spread of germs".

What are some alternatives to "preventative measure"?

Some alternatives include "prophylactic measure", "precautionary step", or "protective action", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between a "preventative measure" and a "precautionary measure"?

While similar, "preventative measure" often implies a more direct attempt to stop something from occurring, whereas "precautionary measure" suggests taking steps to minimize potential risks or uncertainties. Both, however, aim to reduce potential harm.

When should I use "preventative measure" instead of "damage control"?

"Preventative measure" should be used when discussing steps taken before a problem arises. In contrast, "damage control" refers to actions taken after a problem has already begun to mitigate its negative effects.