Preventive vs. preventative

Question

Should we use the word preventive as both the noun and adjective forms? Or is it true that preventive is strictly the adjective and preventative is strictly the noun?Example:We implemented safeguard measures as a preventive (or preventative)?We implemented preventive measures against such dangers.Thanks.

Avangi · Accepted Answer

I cringe when I hear "preventative" as an adjective.

For the noun, I choose "preventative," but "preventive" doesn't bother me, especially in your sentence.

When it comes to English, I have no idea what's "true."

"We did it as a preventive" is more acceptable to my ear than "This is a preventive."

"Measure" is almost understood in the former.

Dimsumexpress · Answer

If my observation is correct, "preventative" is slowly being phased out. In most equipment manual, it's described as "preventive maintenance schedule". Although some may still use " preventataive..".

Avangi · Answer

dimsumexpressIf my observation is correct, "preventative" is slowly being phased out. In most equipment manual, it's described as "preventive maintenance schedule". Although some may still use " preventataive..".

Hi, dim,
I'm sure your observation is correct, but "preventive maintenance" has always been the unquestionably correct adjective usage (although some, regrettably, use "preventative maintenance.")
The question which seems to persist is about the noun usage. Is it being phased out there (too)?
Take this as a preventative.

The one which seems to work both as a noun and an adjective is "prophylactic."

Preventive vs. preventative

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