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

Parents can rest easy knowing that the child-averse can hit the Adults-Only pool to remain unbothered. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Oct. 2026

And even though their indie rock side was fairly pronounced and their hometown shows were ramping up, wakelee struggled to find a place to fit in within NYC’s historically emo-averse local music scene. — Andrew Sacher, SPIN, 5 Oct. 2026

As people outsource more of their thinking to software, the business world grows more homogeneous, risk-averse, predictable and, frankly, boring. — David Farbman, Forbes.com, 1 Oct. 2026

Stella McCartney x Bugaboo Footmuff Cocoon your babe in thermoregulating plushness with this footmuff, benefitting from reflective touches for night walks, a water-averse zipper, and a shoe shield that will maintain a spotless interior. — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 15 Sep. 2026