avert

word

Definition

To prevent something bad from happening, or to turn away (especially one's eyes or face) from something.

Usage & Nuances

'Avert' is formal and often used with negative events ('avert a crisis', 'avert disaster'). Also common with 'avert your eyes/gaze'. Do not use for avoiding people—use 'avoid' instead.

Spanish: evitar - desviar (la mirada)Portuguese (BR): evitar - desviar (o olhar)Portuguese (PT): evitar - desviar (o olhar)Chinese (Simplified): 避免 - 转移（目光）Chinese (Traditional): 避免 - 轉移（目光）Hindi: टालना - हटाना (नज़र)Arabic: يتجنب - يصرف (النظر)

Example Sentences

She tried to avert an accident by slowing down.

basic

You should avert your eyes from the bright light.

basic

We acted quickly to avert disaster.

basic

He barely managed to avert a major problem at work yesterday.

natural

When she saw the news, she had to avert her eyes from the screen.

natural

Good planning can help avert unnecessary stress.

natural