Synonyms of avert

avert

verb

ə-ˈvərt 

as in to prevent

to keep from happening by taking action in advance

her careful planning averted disaster

Synonyms & Similar Words

• prevent
• forestall
• avoid
• preclude
• obviate
• help
• provide
• head off
• escape
• anticipate
• stave off
• thwart
• save
• deter
• nullify
• neutralize
• evade
• hinder
• impede
• deflect
• shake
• prohibit
• negate
• shun
• frustrate
• forbid
• hamper
• counteract
• elude
• interfere (with)
• retard
• offset
• stop
• balk
• eschew
• circumvent
• inhibit
• halt
• fend (off)
• ward (off)
• block
• stall
• make up (for)
• counterbalance
• compensate (for)
• foil
• checkmate
• shirk
• dodge
• check
• arrest
• baffle
• bar
• duck

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• assist
• aid
• facilitate
• promote
• encourage
• ease
• abet
• forward
• advance
• let
• allow
• further
• smooth
• permit
• cultivate
• foster
• leave
• unclog
• nurture

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of avert

Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot hailed for averting a catastrophe on a FlyDubai flight, described Spice Jet incorrectly. — New York Times, 3 Oct. 2026

Research has shown that menthols are more likely to addict young smokers and that a ban could avert 650,000 early deaths over four decades. — Jason McLure — The Examination, STAT, 25 Sep. 2026

With global economic catastrophe averted, attention would shift elsewhere. — Richard Haass, Foreign Affairs, 23 Sep. 2026

At every save point, the game forces James to stare at his reflection, and after the story’s plot twist, James averts his eyes, unable to face his own guilt. — Zackery Cuevas, PC Magazine, 21 Sep. 2026