Synonyms of averse

averse

adjective

ə-ˈvərs 

as in allergic

having a natural dislike for something

I'm not averse to broccoli if it's cooked right

Synonyms & Similar Words

• allergic
• afraid
• reluctant
• antipathetic
• loath
• opposed
• unwilling
• down on
• opposing
• resistant
• disinclined
• resisting
• antagonistic
• hostile
• uncongenial
• negative
• intolerant
• squeamish
• disgusted
• unfriendly
• unsympathetic
• repelled
• revolted
• repulsed
• shocked
• nauseated
• turned off

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• sympathetic
• friendly
• tolerant
• understanding
• fond
• appreciative
• delighted
• pleased
• charmed
• admiring
• tickled

Synonym Chooser

How is the word averse different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of averse are disinclined, hesitant, loath, and reluctant. While all these words mean "lacking the will or desire to do something indicated," averse implies a holding back from or avoiding because of distaste or repugnance.

averse to hard work

not averse to an occasional drink

In what contexts can disinclined take the place of averse?

Although the words disinclined and averse have much in common, disinclined implies lack of taste for or inclination.

disinclined to move again

disinclined for reading

When can hesitant be used instead of averse?

While in some cases nearly identical to averse, hesitant implies a holding back especially through fear or uncertainty.

hesitant about asking for a date

When is loath a more appropriate choice than averse?

The meanings of loath and averse largely overlap; however, loath implies hesitancy because of conflict with one's opinions, predilections, or liking.

seems loath to trust anyone

When might reluctant be a better fit than averse?

In some situations, the words reluctant and averse are roughly equivalent. However, reluctant implies a holding back through unwillingness.

a reluctant witness

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of averse

The Pentagon’s risk-averse culture, reinforced by rules established by Congress, encumbers every stage of the military development, procurement, and integration process. — Doug Beck, Foreign Affairs, 18 Aug. 2026

So Betancourt is helping the administration steer opportunities toward the wildcatters, who are less risk-averse, and private investors, according to people familiar with the matter. — Fabiola Zerpa, Fortune, 17 Aug. 2026

For cat-averse travelers, the tiny Romano-Gothic Church of St Michael in the same square houses the Kotor Lapidarium, a collection of stone artifacts from the Illyro-Roman period to the end of the 18th century. — Jonathan Wiggin, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Aug. 2026

The Lacobs were ultimately too risk-averse, too cautious, and too self-absorbed to build anything of worth without their former general manager. — Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 24 July 2026