Preventative vs. Preventive: Understanding the Key Differences

Preventative vs. Preventive: Understanding the Key Differences

Difference Between Preventative vs. Preventive

History: The words “preventative” and “preventive” both come from the word “prevent,” which means to stop something from happening.

Preventative: This word is used to describe things that are done to stop an event or disease before it happens.

• Washing your hands is a preventative measure to avoid getting sick.
• Regular exercise is a good preventative for heart disease.
• Using sunscreen is an important preventative to avoid sunburn.
• Eating fruits and vegetables is a preventative way to stay healthy.
• Wearing a helmet is a preventative action to prevent head injuries.

Preventive: This word is also used to describe things that are done to stop an event or disease before it happens. It has the same meaning as “preventative.”

• Annual check-ups are important preventive healthcare measures.
• Getting a flu shot is a good preventive action during flu season.
• Installing a smoke alarm is a preventive safety measure for your home.
• Following traffic rules is a preventive way to avoid accidents.
• Using a password to protect your online accounts is a preventive security measure.

Trick to Remember the Difference: Both “preventative” and “preventive” mean the same thing, but “preventive” is more commonly used. Remember, they both prevent bad things from happening.

Summary: “Preventative” and “preventive” are synonyms that mean to stop something before it happens. You can use either word, but “preventive” is more widely accepted.