French Conversation · Level 159
30 words
French word
prévaloir
Pronunciation
IPA/pʁevalwaʁ/
Meaning
- verbprevail
Example
Dans ce concours, la technique prévaudra sur la créativité.
In this competition, technique will prevail over creativity.
More examples
Malgré les débats, les intérêts économiques prévalent sur les préoccupations environnementales.
Despite the debates, economic interests prevail over environmental concerns.
Core concept
One fact or idea stands above its rivals and carries greater weight or influence.
Common phrases
prévaloir sur
prevail over
faire prévaloir
assert
Similar words
l'emporter: Ultimately win a debate, dispute, or struggle.
dominer: Control a person or situation through power or influence.
prendre le dessus: Gain a temporary advantage amid changing emotions or circumstances.
avoir le dessus: Hold a superior position over an opponent.
Definition in French
L'emporter ou avoir plus d'influence qu'une autre chose, en particulier pour des faits ou des idées.
Word origin
French prévaloir comes from Latin praevalēre, meaning to be stronger, from prae- meaning before and valēre meaning to be strong, and is related to English prevail.
Usage tips
- Prévaloir commonly takes sur before the competing thing, as in prévaloir sur la créativité, and has a formal written-register feel.