ward off
The phrasal verb 'ward off' has been in use since the late 16th century and is commonly used to describe actions taken to avoid or prevent threats or dangers.
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Definition
B2General
(common)To prevent or protect against something harmful or unwanted.
Example
- She put up her hands to ward him off.
- You might try to ward off the virus by washing your hands frequently.
B2Physical
(common)To repel or deter a physical threat or attack.
Example
- He used a stick to ward off the stray dog.
B2Figurative
(common)To avert or deflect criticism or negative consequences.
Example
- The company issued a statement to ward off criticism.
- The government introduced measures to ward off economic downturn.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "ward off":
fend offfight offbeat offkeep awayscare offhead offwave offwave awayhold offturn asidebat awaybear offkeep away fromturn awaydrive awaywall offkeep backkeep fromshrug off