to prevent, hinder, or thwart by action in advance

to forestall a riot by deploying police.

to act beforehand with or get ahead of; anticipate.

to buy up (goods) in advance in order to increase the price when resold.

to prevent sales at (a fair, market, etc.) by buying up or diverting goods.

verb

avert , forfend , obviate , preclude , rule out , stave off , ward , anticipate , delay , deter , hinder , monopolize , preoccupy , prevent , thwart