avoid

[uh-void] / əˈvɔɪd /

VERB

refrain or stay away from; prevent

Synonyms

STRONGEST

avert bypass dodge escape evade fend off shun sidestep ward off

STRONG

abstain circumvent deflect desist ditch divert duck elude eschew flee hide jump obviate recoil shake shirk shy skip skirt weave withdraw

WEAK

circumlocute cold-shoulder fake out give the slip hold off keep clear lay low run for cover shake and bake shake off shrink from shuffle off skip out on skip town stay away stay out steer clear of step aside turn aside

Antonyms

STRONGEST

face meet

STRONG

allow help permit stay take on

WEAK

seek want

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In previous attacks, including on the Al-Udeid military base in Qatar after the US struck Iranian nuclear sites last June, Tehran avoided causing American casualties.

From BBC

These days, he strenuously avoids terms like “impossible” and “doomed to fail” when asked about the potential of off-site construction.

From Los Angeles Times

As well as battling to avoid relegation for the first time since 1976-77, the north London club have reached the last 16 of the Champions League in their sole glimmer of hope this season.

From Barron's

Columnist Elizabeth Bernstein discusses the rise in family rifts and what loved ones can do to avoid becoming estranged.

From The Wall Street Journal

He talked about prioritizing sleep and nutrition, such as avoiding artificial sugars and fried foods.

From Los Angeles Times

avoid

Example Sentences

Related Words