obviate
UK: ˈɒb.vi.eɪt | US: ˈɑːb.vi.eɪt
vt. to remove or prevent a problem or need; to make unnecessary
vt. to anticipate and avoid or mitigate (a difficulty)
Derived from Latin obviare ("to meet, oppose"), from ob- ("against") + via ("way"). The original sense was "to meet or confront," which evolved into "to prevent or eliminate by foresight." The morpheme vi (from via) reflects the idea of a "path" or "obstacle in the way," while ob- emphasizes opposition. Over time, the word shifted from literal confrontation to abstract prevention.
The new software update obviates the need for manual data entry.
Early planning can obviate many potential delays.
His apology obviated further conflict.
The invention of email obviated the use of fax machines in most offices.
Proper maintenance obviates costly repairs later.