Prevail
To be more powerful or successful than opposing forces; to win or triumph; also to persuade someone to do something (as in prevail upon).
verbPrevail
To be more powerful or successful than opposing forces; to win or triumph; also to persuade someone to do something (as in prevail upon).
verbImagine This
Imagine a lone athlete facing a much stronger team. After a grueling match, the underdog crosses the finish line first and prevails, the crowd roaring in triumph.
Sounds Like
PRIH-vayl
Looks Like
prevalent (shares root and similar appearance).
Remember This
Prevail is often used with over/against (prevail over) and with upon (prevail upon someone to do something). The related noun is prevalence and the adjective is prevalent.
Other Forms
Connect With
triumph, succeed, win, outlast, overcome, dominate
Note
Do not confuse with prevalent (adjective meaning widespread). Remember that prevail is a verb; use prevalence or prevalent for related noun/adjective meanings.
Study Deeper
- The home team prevailed despite a slow start and won the championship.
- Careful reasoning and solid evidence prevailed in the courtroom.
From Latin praevalere 'to be strong beforehand' from prae- 'before' + valere 'to be strong'; via Old French prevailer and English later as prevail.
Mnemonic: PRE-VAL: Before the strength, the stronger side wins—prevail.
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Diplomatic
adjectiveTactful and prudent in dealing with others, especially in sensitive or potentially confrontational situations; relating to diplomacy.
Prosperity
nounThe state of being prosperous, characterized by wealth, success, and well-being; often used to describe overall economic health or flourishing conditions in a society.
Choler
nounAnger or irascibility; in historical or literary usage, the yellow bile believed to cause a hot temper.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Abandon
verbTo give up completely, to desert or leave behind, or to relinquish a claim, plan, or responsibility.
Abate
verbTo decrease in amount or intensity; to reduce or end something.
Abolish
verbTo formally end or repeal a system, practice, or institution; to officially put an end to something established.
Abridge
verbTo shorten (a text, speech, or other work) by omitting parts; to condense.
Abscond
verbTo depart secretly or flee, especially to avoid detection or arrest.
Absolve
verbTo free someone from blame or responsibility; to pardon or exonerate.