Synonyms for

Prevail

Verb / prɪˈveɪl / / pri:ˈveɪl / Another word for prevail — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to prove more powerful or superior; to be widespread or current

Synonyms & similar words

predominate reign hold diehard triumph run dominate rule obtain endure persist triumph dominate win conquer overcome succeed achieve outdo beat outmatch outweigh outshine outclass outplay outmaneuver outlast surpass exceed prevailing

Synonyms by register

Formal

triumph dominate prevail upon hold sway

Informal

win out come through carry the day get by

Literary

reign rule be ascendant

Antonyms

lose fail succumb yield surrender capitulate submit

Common collocations

  • prevail over
  • prevail against
  • prevail in
  • prevail upon someone
  • prevail on someone
  • justice will prevail
  • common sense will prevail

Word family

noun prevalence
verb prevail
adjective prevalent

Usage note

Often used to mean 'to be widespread' or 'to be victorious'. When meaning 'to be victorious', it is often followed by 'over' or 'against'.

Example sentences

  1. She hoped that kindness would prevail over bitterness.
  2. His argument didn't prevail in the court.
  3. The custom of shaking hands prevails in many countries.
  4. The wind continued to prevail throughout the night.
  5. Good always prevails over evil in fairy tales.

Quotes

  • To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment. - Ralph Waldo Emerson
  • “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” - Steve Jobs
  • “Believe you can and you're halfway there.” - Theodore Roosevelt

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