Vocabulary word Obviate - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

Cause and Effect

Learning activities:

Elimination and Suspension

Learning activities:

GRE 8 (Graduate Record Examination)

Learning activities:

Strategy and Planning

Learning activities:

Dictionary Definition of obviate

To remove a problem or obstacle, make something unnecessary, or prevent the occurrence of something.
"We need to take proactive measures to obviate any potential risks."

Detailed Meaning of Obviate

For example, finding a solution to a problem can obviate the need for further action. A new process that simplifies a task can obviate the need for manual labor. A medicine that cures a disease can obviate the need for further treatment. In general, the term "obviate" is used to describe a situation where something has been removed or eliminated, making it no longer necessary or relevant. By obviating the need for something, it becomes easier and more efficient to achieve a goal or resolve a problem.

Example Sentences for Obviate

1. Their new security system aims to obviate the need for additional personnel.
2. The project's success will obviate the need for further investments.
3. By implementing these guidelines, we can obviate the occurrence of errors.
4. Let's find a solution that will obviate the need for manual intervention.
5. The new software update will obviate the need for frequent system restarts.
6. We should obviate any misunderstandings by clarifying our intentions.

Origin and Etymology of Obviate

The verb 'obviate' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'obviare,' which means 'to meet or go to meet.' This term is formed from 'ob,' meaning 'against' or 'in the way of,' and 'via,' meaning 'way' or 'road.' In its original sense, 'obviate' conveyed the idea of going against or meeting a problem or obstacle head-on to prevent it from becoming an issue. Over time, the word 'obviate' evolved to signify the act of removing a problem or obstacle, making something unnecessary, or preventing the occurrence of something by addressing it proactively. This etymological journey underscores the concept of taking preemptive action to overcome challenges and ensure a smoother path forward.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb obviate:

necessitate

prevent

provoke

cause

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

More Usage Examples of Obviate

1. A well-designed workflow can obviate the need for constant supervision.
2. Their innovative approach can obviate the use of traditional methods.
3. Obeying traffic rules can obviate the risk of accidents.
4. A thorough risk assessment can obviate potential hazards in the workplace.
5. To prevent data breaches, we must obviate vulnerabilities in our network.
6. The new regulations aim to obviate unethical practices in the industry.
7. Proper maintenance can obviate the need for costly repairs.
8. The use of automated processes will obviate human errors.
9. Investing in renewable energy can obviate the dependence on fossil fuels.
10. Transparent communication can obviate misunderstandings among team members.
11. Adhering to safety protocols can obviate accidents in the laboratory.
12. Implementing effective policies can obviate the risk of financial losses.
13. Regular backups obviate the fear of losing important data.
14. Early vaccination can obviate the need for extensive medical treatment.
15. Adequate planning can obviate potential delays in the construction project.
16. The safety measures in place obviate the risk of accidents.
17. Proper training can obviate errors in data entry.
18. A well-designed app can obviate the need for multiple tools.
19. Timely maintenance can obviate major equipment breakdowns.
20. The invention of the wheel obviated the need to carry heavy loads.
21. Clear communication can obviate misunderstandings in a team.
22. Legal precautions can obviate disputes in business contracts.
23. Swift action can obviate a crisis from escalating.
24. Quality control checks can obviate defective products from reaching consumers.