Let's avoid a confrontation. Head off a confrontation. Avert a strike.
source: WordNet 3.0
prevent from entering; keep out
He was barred from membership in the club.
source: WordNet 3.0
To cut off from entrance, as if by a bar or barrier; to preclude; to hinder from approach, entry, or enjoyment; to shut out or exclude; to deny or refuse; -- with from, and sometimes with of.
