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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of averse Both industries involve risk-averse buyers making decisions about protecting valuable assets. Lee Salisbury, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025 But then those people got fired and replaced by this group with members who are science-averse and anti-vaccine. Isaac Chotiner, New Yorker, 31 Aug. 2025 That’s 247 million people getting up and breaking a sweat as opposed to just 20%, or 62 million, who remain exercise averse. Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 14 Aug. 2025 Young adults born after 1996 are more risk averse than other generations. Caren Bohan, USA Today, 1 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for averse
Recent Examples of Synonyms for averse
allergic
Adjective
  • This is especially the case for people taking associated blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs, people allergic to Meloxicam or people with a pre-existing medical condition.
    David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 2 Sep. 2025
  • Food allergic reactions vary in severity from mild symptoms involving hives and lip swelling to severe, life-threatening symptoms, often called anaphylaxis, that may involve fatal respiratory problems and shock.
    Toby Meyjes, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Averse.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/averse. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on averse

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