Synonyms of avert

avert

verb

ə-ˈvərt 

as in to prevent

to keep from happening by taking action in advance

her careful planning averted disaster

Synonyms & Similar Words

• prevent
• forestall
• avoid
• preclude
• obviate
• help
• provide
• head off
• escape
• anticipate
• stave off
• thwart
• save
• deter
• nullify
• neutralize
• evade
• hinder
• impede
• deflect
• shake
• prohibit
• negate
• shun
• frustrate
• forbid
• hamper
• counteract
• elude
• interfere (with)
• retard
• offset
• stop
• balk
• eschew
• circumvent
• inhibit
• halt
• fend (off)
• ward (off)
• block
• stall
• make up (for)
• counterbalance
• compensate (for)
• foil
• checkmate
• shirk
• dodge
• check
• arrest
• baffle
• bar
• duck

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• assist
• aid
• facilitate
• promote
• encourage
• ease
• abet
• forward
• advance
• let
• allow
• further
• smooth
• permit
• cultivate
• foster
• leave
• unclog
• nurture

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of avert

The worst-case scenario for Rakuten Bank would be to overpay for its securities and card segments, but direct intervention by Mizuho could avert that, Jefferies analysts added. —Justina Lee, CNBC, 18 May 2026

But Schumer and nine other Senate Democrats voted to advance the bill, and the shutdown was averted. —Jason Zengerle, New Yorker, 18 May 2026

In North Carolina, lawmakers passed a bipartisan bill April 30 to fully fund Medicaid through the end of this fiscal year on June 30, to avert a looming $319 million shortfall. —Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 18 May 2026

Before the strike began Saturday, both sides had tried to avert disruption to services. —Chad De Guzman, Time, 18 May 2026