thwart
What does "thwart" mean?
To thwart someone or something means to effectively stop them from achieving a goal or carrying out a plan. The mental image is that of a wall or a barrier suddenly appearing in someone's path, forcing them to stop or change their direction completely. It is typically used in contexts involving conflict, such as preventing a crime, foiling a villainous plot, or overcoming an obstacle. Because it implies a deliberate, successful effort to block progress, it is a stronger and more active verb than "hinder" or "prevent."
"thwart" in conversation
Discussing a movie plot
The hero finally managed to thwart the villain's plans for world domination.
The hero finally managed to thwart the villain's plans for world domination.
I knew it! They always seem to save the day at the last second.
I knew it! They always seem to save the day at the last second.
Used here to describe stopping a specific, malicious intent.
Work project frustration
The sudden budget cuts have thwarted our plans to launch the new app this month.
The sudden budget cuts have thwarted our plans to launch the new app this month.
That is incredibly frustrating. We worked so hard on that timeline.
That is incredibly frustrating. We worked so hard on that timeline.
Shows that 'thwart' can apply to inanimate obstacles like lack of money.
"thwart" in a sentence
The security guard thwarted the thief's attempt to enter the building.
The security guard thwarted the thief's attempt to enter the building.
Heavy rain thwarted our plans for a picnic in the park.
Heavy rain thwarted our plans for a picnic in the park.
Despite his best efforts, he was thwarted by a series of unforeseen administrative complications.
Despite his best efforts, he was thwarted by a series of unforeseen administrative complications.
