prevail Meaning

Keyword: Prevail

Definition: To prevail means to be in force, to triumph, or to be victorious in a particular situation. It often conveys the idea of overcoming challenges or opposition and can refer to ideas, emotions, or conditions that exist or are widely accepted.

Usage:

• In a competitive context: “After a long debate, their arguments prevailed over the opposition.”
• In a general context: “Despite the adversity, hope prevailed.”

Etymology: The term “prevail” originates from the Latin word “praevalere,” which means “to be strong” or “to be of superior strength,” from “prae-” (before) + “valere” (to be strong). It entered the English language in the late Middle Ages.

Pronunciation: /prɪˈveɪl/ (pri-VEYL)

Synonyms:

• Triumph
• Succeed
• Win
• Conquer
• Dominate
• Reign

Antonyms:

• Fail
• Lose
• Surrender
• Yield
• Submit

“Prevail” is often used in both formal and informal contexts and can apply to various situations, from legal cases to personal challenges.

1. After a lengthy debate, the committee decided to prevail on the importance of environmental conservation.
2. Despite the challenges, she hoped that reason would prevail in the end.
3. In court, the defendant’s lawyer was confident that they would prevail in proving his innocence.
4. The team’s determination allowed them to prevail over their toughest opponents during the championship.
5. With a strong strategy and teamwork, the company aimed to prevail in the competitive market.