Averse

Having a strong dislike or opposition to something; unwilling to do or engage in it.

adjective

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Imagine This

The boy is reluctant to attend Sunday School because he is unwilling to recite verses in the Bible.

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Sounds Like

uh-VERSE

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Looks Like

A_verse (in the Bible)

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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.

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Other Forms

aversionnoun

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Connect With

disinclination, reluctance, opposition, skepticism

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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'.

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Study Deeper

Examples

She is averse to taking risks and prefers careful planning.
Many voters are averse to sweeping policy changes.

Synonyms

disinclinedunwillingreluctantopposedresistant

Antonyms

eagerkeenenthusiasticwilling

Etymology

From Latin aversus 'turned away,' the past participle of avertere 'to turn away' (ab- 'away' + vertere 'to turn').

Mnemonic

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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Unorthodox

adjective

Not conforming to established or traditional beliefs, customs, or practices; unconventional or nonconforming.

Neophyte

noun

An inexperienced person; a novice.

Furtive

adjective

Secretive and stealthy, avoiding notice or attention, especially to conceal wrongdoing or achieve a goal.

Similar Words

Related words and words with the same part of speech.

Abstruse

adjective

Difficult to understand; obscure or highly complex.

Accidental

adjective

Happening by chance or without deliberate planning; not intended. In music, it is also a noun for a symbol that temporarily alters a pitch.

Acerbic

adjective

Sharp or biting in tone or taste; caustic or mordant in manner.

Acquiescent

adjective

Ready to agree or approve without protest; compliant.

Adamant

adjective

Rigid in opinion or purpose; not willing to change one's mind or position.

Adept

adjective

Having or showing a high level of skill or proficiency; very capable.

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