Prevail
/prɪˈveɪl/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo prove more powerful, successful, or effective; to triumph.
/prɪˈveɪl/
To prove more powerful than opposing forces; be victorious.
Despite the challenges, hope prevailed.
💡 Simply: Imagine a game where you're fighting for the lead. If you "prevail," you beat everyone else and win the game. It's about being the best and coming out on top, like when your good ideas win over bad ones!
👶 For kids: To win! Like when you are playing a game and you finally win!
More Examples
Justice will eventually prevail.
Reason must prevail over emotion in this situation.
How It's Used
"The rebels eventually prevailed against the ruling government."
"The plaintiff's arguments prevailed in court."
To be widespread, common, or generally accepted.
/prɪˈveɪl/
To be widespread in a particular area or at a particular time.
A sense of optimism prevailed throughout the company.
💡 Simply: Imagine a popular trend – everyone's doing it! If something "prevails," it's like that trend – it's common or popular at a certain time or place. It's the 'it' thing!
👶 For kids: To be everywhere! Like when your favorite toy is popular and everyone has one!
More Examples
The cold weather prevailed for weeks.
Customs of the past still prevail in many societies.
How It's Used
"Superstition prevailed in the community."
"The disease that prevailed in the city was devastating."
Synonyms
From Old French *prevaloir* (to be superior, gain the upper hand), from Latin *praevalēre* (to be very powerful, have greater power), from *prae-* (before) + *valēre* (to be strong).
Used since the 14th century, initially in a more religious context, referring to God's power. It later shifted to broader applications of victory or widespread occurrence.
Memory tip
Picture a strong wind (the 'vail') pushing away weaker forces. The 'pre' implies before or against them. Prevail is winning against obstacles.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: valere