Words / A2

uh-VOYD/əˈvɔɪd/

To avoid is to stay away from something, or to stop it happening. Avoid busy roads. Avoid + -ing: avoid eating late. Prevent is stronger and often needs an object: prevent an accident. You avoid a person you do not want to meet.

Meaning

To stay away from someone or something, or to stop something happening.

Examples

• “Try to avoid busy roads in the morning.”
• “She avoids sweet drinks.”
• “You cannot avoid every mistake.”

Good to know

avoid + noun / avoid + -ing. Stronger: prevent.

Near in meaning

keep away from

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