Definitions

avoidance

[uh-void-ns] / əˈvɔɪd ns /

NOUN

eluding; preventing

Synonyms

STRONGEST

evasion prevention restraint

STRONG

circumvention delay departure dodge dodging elusion escape escapism flight forbearance nonparticipation parry recession recoil retreat self-restraint shirking shunning

WEAK

absention eschewal passive resistance runaround steering clear of

Antonyms

STRONG

advance arrival coming continuation stay

WEAK

meeting

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.

For most people, moderation matters more than complete avoidance.

From Science Daily • May 18, 2026

Without naming India directly, Pakistan's corps commanders recently stressed the need for "restraint and avoidance of escalation", saying regional stability depends on "collective restraint, responsibility and respect for sovereignty".

From BBC • May 7, 2026

It started with members from one group chasing the other and prolonged periods of avoidance.

From Salon • Apr. 23, 2026

But at some point, financial engineering stops being strategy and starts being avoidance.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 21, 2026

I avoided the place when I could, and barely tolerated it when avoidance didn’t work.

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin

Vocabulary lists containing avoidance

In the Mood? 100 Words to Describe Emotions

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"Living Like Weasels," Vocabulary from the essay

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Free Period

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!