preventive measure

USAGE SUMMARY

'preventive measure' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to refer to actions taken to stop or anticipate future problems or danger. For example, "Frequent hand washing is a key preventive measure to reduce the spread of coronavirus."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A truly preventive measure is one that prevents people from learning that violence is acceptable in the first place.

The New York Times

"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

One preventive measure is using an appropriate shoe.

The Washington Post

This "preventive measure" was met with huge opposition in Germany.

The New York Times

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "preventive measure" when you want to emphasize proactive steps taken to avoid negative outcomes. For example: "Installing security cameras is a "preventive measure" against theft."

Common error

Avoid using "preventive measure" without specifying what it is preventing. For instance, instead of saying "We implemented a "preventive measure"", specify "We implemented a "preventive measure" to reduce the risk of data breaches".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preventive measure" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object or complement in a sentence. It refers to a specific action or strategy designed to avert a potential problem or undesirable outcome. Ludwig confirms its appropriate usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "preventive measure" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase referring to actions taken to avoid potential problems. As Ludwig AI confirms, it sees wide applicability across diverse sources like news, science, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to provide specific context about the problem being prevented to ensure clarity. Synonyms like "precautionary step" or "safety precaution" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember, a "preventive measure" is proactive, differing from reactive measures that address problems after they arise.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precautionary step

Emphasizes a single action taken as a safeguard.

safety precaution

Highlights the aspect of ensuring safety.

protective step

Focuses on shielding from harm.

prophylactic strategy

More formal and often used in medical contexts.

deterrent action

Implies discouraging something negative from happening.

risk mitigation

Focuses on reducing the severity of potential risks.

forestalling tactic

Emphasizes preventing something from occurring by acting in advance.

safeguarding protocol

Highlights an established procedure for protection.

impeding intervention

Focuses on actively preventing or slowing down something undesirable.

counteractive maneuver

Implies a strategic move to counteract a potential threat.

FAQs

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

You can use "preventive measure" to describe an action taken to avoid a potential problem. For example, "Washing your hands frequently is an effective "preventive measure" against the spread of germs".

What are some synonyms for "preventive measure"?

Alternatives to "preventive measure" include "precautionary step", "safety precaution", or "protective step". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "preventative measure" the same as "preventive measure"?

While "preventative" is sometimes used, "preventive measure" is the more widely accepted and preferred term. Both aim to describe actions taken to prevent something negative from occurring.

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

A "preventive measure" aims to stop a problem before it occurs, while a reactive measure addresses a problem that has already happened. For example, installing a fire alarm is a "preventive measure", while calling the fire department after a fire starts is reactive.