Question

prefixes
the prefix \pre\ means \come before\.
it is important that we prevent the flu from spreading before it gets worse.
which is most likely the meaning of the underlined word?
to stop something before it happens
to worsen something
to understand something clearly
to cause something to happen

Explanation:

The prefix "pre -" means "come before". The word "prevent" has the prefix "pre -". So we need to find the option that relates to the idea of doing something before (as per the prefix meaning). The first option "To stop something before it happens" aligns with the "pre -" (before) concept. The second option "To worsen something" has no relation to the prefix meaning. The third option "To understand something clearly" also has no connection to the "pre -" (before) idea. The fourth option "To cause something to happen" is the opposite in a sense (as "prevent" is about stopping, not causing) and also doesn't fit the "pre -" (before) meaning.

Answer:

To stop something before it happens