subdict-logo

prevail

Definition

  • verb: to defeat an opponent especially in a long or difficult contest
  • verb: to gain ascendancy through strength or superiority
  • often + 'against' or 'over'
  • synonyms: triumph, obtain

Examples

  • She 'prevailed' in a lawsuit 'against' her doctor. [=she won a lawsuit against her doctor]

  • The house was built in the style that 'prevailed' in the 1980s.

  • Our soccer team 'prevailed' [='won'] despite the bad weather.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) Then I assume you have the location. Confirmed by all. Independently. I had feared the Priory's penchant for secrecy might prevail. The prospect of death is strong motivation. It is here. In Paris, Teacher. It hides beneath the Rose (..)
    2006 The Da Vinci Code