1
Triumph over opposition
Succeed after a struggle, dispute, or contest against significant resistance.
Example
After months of debate, a compromise position prevailed.
prevail
/prɪˈveɪl/ · prih-VAYLverb
To triumph or become dominant despite opposition.
Use prevail when an idea, group, condition, or principle ultimately succeeds or becomes dominant after resistance.
What prevail Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Become dominant
Gain general acceptance because evidence or circumstances favour one view over alternatives.
Example
The explanation supported by stronger evidence eventually prevailed.
3
Be widespread
Exist generally or exert dominant influence in a place, period, or group.
Example
Dry conditions prevailed across the region for most of the season.
Use prevail Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
After months of debate, a compromise position prevailed.
Despite early opposition, the view supported by stronger evidence ultimately prevailed.
Cooler conditions prevailed along the coast throughout the study period.
Precision Matters
Prevail overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
prevail
vs.Can describe an idea or condition becoming dominant as well as victory.
triumph
Usually emphasises a notable victory or achievement.
prevail
vs.Succeeds or dominates despite opposition.
persist
Continues to exist or act despite difficulty without necessarily succeeding.
prevail
vs.Often implies a struggle or competition before dominance.
predominate
Simply means be the strongest or most common element.
prevail
vs.Overcomes the opposing force.
succumb
Yields or fails to resist—the contrast.
Test prevail in Context
The evidence-supported view becomes dominant despite its early disadvantage.
1
Although the older interpretation initially had more supporters, the newer view was backed by stronger archaeological evidence and eventually began to ___.