thwart
To prevent someone from accomplishing something; to block or defeat
Examples
In a meeting
“Technical issues thwarted our attempt to launch on schedule.”
Over coffee
“My plans to go hiking were thwarted by the rain.”
Why this word
prevent
thwart emphasizes actively blocking or frustrating a plan already in motion, while prevent is more general about stopping something before it happens
stop
thwart specifically means to obstruct someone's plans or efforts, while stop is broader and less specific about opposing intentional actions
block
thwart implies defeating a deliberate intention or scheme, while block simply means creating an obstacle
Usage tip
Use when plans or efforts are actively blocked or defeated. Implies opposition or obstacles.
Etymology
Old Norse: thvert (across) — originally a nautical term meaning 'across the ship'
Get a new word every morning
One precise word per day. Under 60 seconds to read. Free forever.
Related words
hinder
To create difficulties that slow progress or prevent success
preempt
Take action to prevent something before it happens
deter
To discourage someone from taking an action
roadblock
An obstacle that prevents progress
prophylactic
Intended to prevent disease or other unwanted consequences
impasse
A deadlock where no progress is possible