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
• loth
• down on
• loathe
• opposing
• resistant
• disinclined
• resisting
• antagonistic
• hostile
• uncongenial
• negative
• intolerant
• squeamish
• disgusted
• unfriendly
• unsympathetic
• repelled
• revolted
• nauseated
• repulsed
• shocked
• 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 Burning Glass analysis describes AI as an accelerant layered on top of lean staffing and risk-averse hiring, not a solitary cause. —Jennifer Moss, Fortune, 24 Sep. 2025

After October 7, Israelis have become extremely risk-averse and reluctant to make territorial concessions, especially given the ongoing terrorism threat from the Palestinian territories and the PA’s dysfunction. —Shira Efron, Foreign Affairs, 23 Sep. 2025

They were followed by risk-averse Democrat Gray Davis, who nevertheless was recalled in 2003, and replaced by Republican action movie star Arnold Schwarzenegger. —Dan Walters, Mercury News, 19 Sep. 2025

Good to recall here that ABC is owned by Disney, the most risk-averse entertainment conglomerate in America, run by Bob Iger who is also our savviest media mogul. —Carlo Versano, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Sep. 2025