Words / C1

uh-VURSHUN/əˈvɜːʃn/

An aversion is a strong dislike, usually aversion to: an aversion to public speaking. Dislike is everyday and milder; hatred is stronger and more personal; phobia is closer to a clinical fear. Averse to is the adjective pattern (risk-averse). In speech, I really cannot stand is blunter. Do not confuse averse with adverse (harmful conditions).

Meaning

A strong dislike of something (aversion to).

Examples

• “He has an aversion to public speaking.”
• “He has an aversion to group presentations, not to the subject.”
• “Her aversion to last-minute changes made her a reliable organiser.”

Good to know

aversion to + noun/-ing. Strong dislike. Adjective: averse to. Everyday: cannot stand. Contrast: adverse = harmful. Stronger: hatred; clinical: phobia.

Near in meaning

dislike

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