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

For risk-averse managers, they can be seen as evidence of the perils of inexperience. —Patrick Boyland, New York Times, 13 Apr. 2026

According to our writers and editors, these are some of the best ones—seven documentaries that even the most documentary-averse can enjoy. —Stephanie Bai, The Atlantic, 12 Apr. 2026

Carving out a career as a director of new work can’t be easy at a time when artistic directors around the country, struggling to keep their increasingly risk-averse subscribers on board, are gravitating toward the familiar and the market-tested. —Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 8 Apr. 2026

Sushi lovers can choose from nigiri, rolls and a slew of raw bar appetizers, while the fish-averse and vegetarians can enjoy other meat-based or veggie entrées. —Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 7 Apr. 2026