Averse versus Adverse

When to Use Averse


Averse is an adjective and is defined as “having a feeling of opposition, distaste, or aversion; reluctant.” For example,

  • I prefer investors who are risk-averse.

    The word averse is used to describe a person’s attitude towards things but not people. For example, you might say you are averse to hunting, but you wouldn’t say you are averse to hunters.

    Averse to is a widespread phrase that is used to express dislike, opposition, or hostility.

    When to Use Adverse

    Adverse is also an adjective and is defined as “to be acting in opposition.” It can also mean unfortunate or harmful. For example,

  • The United States has had adverse relations with Cuba for many years.

    Adverse is applied to situations, conditions, or events but never to humans.

    Summary

    These two words have similar senses, but adverse vs. averse should not be confused with each other.

    Averse describes a feeling a person has about something.

    Adverse describes something that is working against something else. It can never be applied to humans.

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