WordGarden.ioprevail
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /prɪvˈeɪl/
US
- /priˈveɪl/
Meanings
Verb
to win or succeed after a struggle, contest, or dispute
to be widespread, current, or in force
to persuade someone to do something
Beyond the definition
Imagine a tiny seed pushing through hard soil toward the sunlight. It keeps going and, in the end, wins against the odds. To prevail means to be stronger than what stands against you, or to win after a struggle. It is not just about winning quickly; it often carries the idea of lasting through difficulty. A good argument might prevail over bad logic, common sense can prevail when emotions run high, and calm can prevail in a room that was once full of shouting.
To prevail means to prove more powerful than opposing forces; to succeed, triumph, or be victorious, especially after a contest or struggle. It suggests overcoming challenges and continuing despite difficulties. Think of it as not just reaching the finish line, but doing so through hardship.
Historically, "prevail" comes from the Old French prevaloir, meaning "to be strong" or "have effect." This sense of strength and influence is still at its core. You might read about justice prevailing in a courtroom drama, signifying that truth and fairness ultimately won out. Or you could say that good weather prevailed throughout the vacation, meaning it remained the dominant state despite the potential for storms.
"Prevail" isn't limited to grand battles or dramatic events. It can describe smaller victories too. For example, if you're trying to convince a friend to see a movie and they finally agree, your persuasion has prevailed. You might also "prevail upon" someone, which is a formal way of saying you successfully persuaded them to do something.
It can also describe a widespread condition or atmosphere: "Optimism prevailed throughout the company despite the recent losses." So, whether describing a triumphant victory, a persistent force, or simply the prevailing mood, the word speaks to the strength required to succeed or endure in the face of adversity.
Examples
- 1
Argument
After hours of argument, the quieter voices finally prevailed.
- 2
Practical judgment
In the end, common sense prevailed, and the trip was postponed.
- 3
Sports victory
The team prevailed over its rivals in the final minutes of the match.
- Patternprevail over + opponent/problem
defeat or overcome that opponent or problem
- 4
Atmosphere
A tense silence prevailed in the room after the announcement.
- Patternfeeling/situation prevails
it is present everywhere in a place or moment
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Traditions
The old customs still prevail in some villages.
- 6
Persuasion
She finally prevailed on her father to talk to a doctor.
- Patternprevail on + someone + to do something
persuade them after trying
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- prevailverb
Forms
- prevailing-ing formverb
- prevailedpast tenseverb
- prevailsverb