In what context might one use the term 'forestall'?

The term 'forestall' is most accurately defined as taking action to prevent something from happening or to hinder an event before it occurs. It implies a proactive approach, where one does something in advance to stop a possible negative outcome or delay. In various contexts, such as negotiations or planning, one might 'forestall' a potential crisis by addressing issues preemptively.

For instance, if a company anticipates a drop in sales due to market trends, it might implement strategies to 'forestall' this downturn by launching a new marketing campaign or introducing innovative products. This clearly aligns with the definition and usage of 'forestall,' emphasizing its preventive nature. The other terms, while relevant in different scenarios, do not capture this specific notion of preemptively stopping something.