The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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thwart

verb

/θwɔːt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of thwart

To prevent someone or something from achieving a goal or objective.
"The unexpected obstacles didn't thwart his pursuit of success."

Detailed meaning of thwart

It is often used in the context of an obstacle or hindrance that stands in the way of success or progress. For example, a criminal's plans might be thwarted by the police, or a company's efforts to expand might be thwarted by economic conditions. It can also be used to describe the act of preventing someone from doing something, such as when a parent thwarts a child's attempts to stay up late.

In a more general sense, thwarting can refer to the act of blocking, hindering or opposing someone or something from achieving a goal or objective. It can also be used to describe the act of preventing something from happening, either by taking active steps to stop it or by creating an obstacle that makes it impossible. It can be used both in a positive or negative context, for example, thwarting a criminal's plan is seen as a positive action, but thwarting a person's ambition can be seen as negative. In a nutshell, thwarting refers to the act of preventing someone or something from achieving a goal or objective, by creating an obstacle or hindrance.

Example sentences containing thwart

1. You can't thwart his ambitions; he's far too determined.
2. Strategies to thwart cyber threats are becoming increasingly important.
3. We must thwart their plans before it's too late.
4. I will do everything in my power to thwart this injustice.
5. New security measures will thwart any attempt at trespassing.
6. Don't let self-doubt thwart your path to greatness.

History and etymology of thwart

The verb 'thwart' has its origins in Old English, where it was known as 'thwarian,' meaning 'to oppose' or 'to hinder.' The word is related to the Old Norse term 'thvert,' which means 'across' or 'athwart.' The root of 'thwart' is 'thweor,' which signifies a position across or transversely to something. Over time, 'thwart' evolved to describe the act of preventing someone or something from achieving a goal or objective by opposing or obstructing their efforts. The etymology of 'thwart' reflects the idea of creating an obstacle or barrier in the path of progress, embodying the notion of hindrance or obstruction that harkens back to its historical roots in Old English and Old Norse.

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Further usage examples of thwart

1. They aim to thwart the enemy's advances by all means.
2. Unforeseen technical glitches might thwart our launch event.
3. We have to thwart such harmful practices from becoming norms.
4. To thwart poverty, we need impactful, long-lasting solutions.
5. Quick-thinking on her part managed to thwart a disaster.
6. Her determination will thwart any hindrance on the way to victory.
7. A sudden change in climate could thwart our expedition plans.
8. Don't let your fear thwart the pursuit of your dreams.
9. The team is working tirelessly to thwart any security breach.
10. The software will thwart any unauthorized access to the system.
11. Regulatory measures are required to thwart unethical business practices.
12. His courage and resilience will thwart any challenges in his way.
13. The clever detective managed to thwart the criminal's escape plan.
14. A sudden rainstorm threatened to thwart our beach outing.
15. Her determination could not be thwarted by obstacles in her path.
16. Strict security measures were in place to thwart any intrusion.
17. The unexpected delay threatened to thwart their travel plans.
18. His quick thinking helped thwart a potential disaster at work.
19. The vigilant lifeguard acted swiftly to thwart a drowning incident.
20. Innovative technology can help thwart cyberattacks on businesses.
21. The superhero's mission was to thwart the evil villain's plot.
22. The well-prepared team was ready to thwart any challenges.
23. Effective communication can thwart misunderstandings in relationships.