Is 'prevail' formal or informal?

What's the difference between 'prevail' and 'win'?

How is 'prevail' different from 'win' or 'succeed'?

How do I use 'prevail' in a sentence?

Can 'prevail' be used with 'against' or 'over'?

Is 'prevail' a common word?

Is 'prevail' common in academic writing?

← Dictionary

prevail

/prɪˈveɪl/

IELTSAcademic

verb

To succeed, win, or be common despite opposition or change.

Customs practices may **prevail** over old rules.
Truth will **prevail** in the end.

Adinary Nuance

Near-neighbors: 'prevail' suggests continuing influence or winning after challenge, unlike 'win' (single success) or 'dominate' (ongoing control). Use 'prevail' when persistence or eventual success against opposition matters, rather than mere victory.

In other languages

Spanish: prevalece
Japanese: 勝つ
Korean: 승리하다
Vietnamese: thắng thế
Chinese: 占优势

Common phrases

prevail againstprevail inprevail over

Synonyms

succeed triumph overcome conquer prevail on

Related words

success win conquer overcome persist

Frequently asked questions

Is 'prevail' formal or informal?: Is 'prevail' formal or informal?
What's the difference between 'prevail' and 'win'?: How is 'prevail' different from 'win' or 'succeed'?
How do I use 'prevail' in a sentence?: Can 'prevail' be used with 'against' or 'over'?
Is 'prevail' a common word?: Is 'prevail' common in academic writing?