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

Estimates suggest that as a result of the implementation of these mandates, more than 200,000 COVID-19 cases were averted by May 22, 2020. — Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2026

The author's experience shows caution, though slower, averts problems, contrasting with industry's rapid deployments that often encounter issues. — Shannon McKeen, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026

The deal averts a ballot referendum that backers from the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association said would’ve reigned in expansive local real estate taxes. — Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 26 June 2026

The catastrophies that our heroine averts are awfully small potatoes — a bulldozer running amok, an amusement park ride speeding out of control, some prankish teenagers scheming to turn the girl’s shower into a steambath. — Arthur Knight, HollywoodReporter, 25 June 2026