Averse
Having a strong dislike or opposition to something; unwilling to do or engage in it.
adjectiveAverse
Having a strong dislike or opposition to something; unwilling to do or engage in it.
adjectiveImagine This
The boy is reluctant to attend Sunday School because he is unwilling to recite verses in the Bible.
Sounds Like
uh-VERSE
Looks Like
A_verse (in the Bible)
Remember This
Remember: Averse is often confused with adverse (harmful) or with the idea of being 'averse to' something; the suffix -verse hints at turning away rather than turning toward.
Other Forms
Connect With
disinclination, reluctance, opposition, skepticism
Note
Usually followed by 'to' plus a noun or gerund (e.g., averse to taking risks). Do not use 'averse' to mean 'not willing' without 'to'.
Study Deeper
- She is averse to taking risks and prefers careful planning.
- Many voters are averse to sweeping policy changes.
From Latin aversus 'turned away,' the past participle of avertere 'to turn away' (ab- 'away' + vertere 'to turn').
Averse = Away from verse. Remember that if you are averse to something, you turn away from it; A-VERSE means turning away from the verse.
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Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Abstruse
adjectiveDifficult to understand; obscure or highly complex.
Accidental
adjectiveHappening by chance or without deliberate planning; not intended. In music, it is also a noun for a symbol that temporarily alters a pitch.
Acerbic
adjectiveSharp or biting in tone or taste; caustic or mordant in manner.
Acquiescent
adjectiveReady to agree or approve without protest; compliant.
Adamant
adjectiveRigid in opinion or purpose; not willing to change one's mind or position.
Adept
adjectiveHaving or showing a high level of skill or proficiency; very capable.