Synonyms of head off

head off

verb

as in to prevent

to keep from happening by taking action in advance

if we act quickly, we may still be able to head off disaster

Synonyms & Similar Words

• prevent
• avert
• stave off
• preclude
• avoid
• help
• obviate
• forestall
• escape
• provide
• interfere (with)
• anticipate
• ward (off)
• fend (off)
• make up (for)
• save
• compensate (for)
• shake
• evade
• thwart
• nullify
• deter
• neutralize
• hinder
• impede
• retard
• hamper
• offset
• stop
• balk
• deflect
• negate
• block
• prohibit
• elude
• shun
• stall
• frustrate
• forbid
• eschew
• foil
• circumvent
• counteract
• check
• bar
• counterbalance
• duck
• arrest
• inhibit
• dodge
• halt
• shirk
• checkmate
• baffle

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• aid
• assist
• facilitate
• ease
• forward
• smooth
• promote
• advance
• encourage
• further
• let
• leave
• permit
• foster
• cultivate
• abet
• allow
• unclog
• nurture

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of head off

The unprecedented show of security cooperation came as top Mexican officials were in Washington, D.C., trying to head off the Trump administration’s threat of imposing 25% tariffs on many Mexican imports. —Jason Meisner, Chicago Tribune, 5 Mar. 2025

As the next phase of Google's search trial nears, the company's lawyers have reportedly met with representatives from the US Department of Justice in hopes of heading off a breakup. —Ryan Whitwam, Ars Technica, 5 Mar. 2025

Pate will play Samantha, the charismatic college freshman girlfriend of Jeremy (Nivola), who has been pretty distant since heading off to school. —Matt Grobar, Deadline, 3 Mar. 2025

Deutch called out as Depp prepared to head off into the night. —Sam Sussman, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2025