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.

Fiduciaries must avoid conflicts of interest, and must disclose any potential conflicts.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 4, 2026

The former official asked not to be named to avoid a public debate with the industry.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

It’s not like technology executives are starved for choice when it comes to getting their voice out, even if they prefer to avoid traditional media interviews.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

Some think that it will take tens of thousands of new jobs a month to avoid a rise in unemployment; others believe that the job market could actually shrink without leaving more willing workers sidelined.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

She never crossed Washington Square Park if she could avoid it.

From "Night Owls" by A.R. Vishny

avoid

Example Sentences

Related Words