obviate
verb
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Obviate derives from the Late Latin obviare (meaning "to meet or withstand") and the Latin obviam (meaning "in the way") and is also an ancestor of our adjective obvious. Obviate has a number of synonyms in English, including prevent, preclude, and avert; all of these words can mean "to hinder or stop something." When you prevent or preclude something, you put up an insurmountable obstacle. In addition, preclude often implies that a degree of chance was involved in stopping an event. Obviate generally suggests the use of intelligence or forethought to ward off trouble. Avert always implies that a bad situation has been anticipated and prevented or deflected by the application of immediate and effective means.
Examples of obviate in a Sentence
Namwali Serpell, The New Yorker, 8 Mar. 2025
Tariffs on imports will lead to a higher demand for compliance professionals that can enforce those tariffs and make sure foreign countries aren’t obviating them.
—Sanjeev Menon, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025
However, since most vegetables grow for only a season or two, proper fertilization when planting will obviate the need for fertilization of any kind later on.
—Joshua Siskin, Orange County Register, 14 Feb. 2025
Power, when claimed in this way, obviates the need for reason.
—Megan Garber, The Atlantic, 27 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for obviate
Cite this Entry
“Obviate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/obviate. Accessed 21 Mar. 2025.
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obviate
verb
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