A2verb 1K

Avoid

UK //əˈvɔɪd// US //əˈvɔɪd// Pronunciation

Definition

To keep away from something or someone.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Stay away from something

Examples

• It's best to avoid fast food for better health.
• She decided to avoid talking about politics at dinner.
• You should avoid walking alone at night.
• He tried to avoid the traffic by taking back roads.
• They wanted to avoid any arguments during the meeting.

Usage notes

Use 'avoid' when you want to not do something. It's neutral and fits in most contexts, but might sound too formal in casual conversations.

Listen to usage notes

Grammar pattern

avoid + object

Memory hint

Think of a person dodging a ball—'avoid' means to dodge or stay away.

Collocations

• avoid contact
• avoid trouble
• avoid mistakes

Synonyms

• steer clear of
• shun
• eschew
• evade

Antonyms

• confront
• face

Common mistakes

• Confusing 'avoid' with 'prevent'; 'avoid' means not doing, while 'prevent' means stopping something from happening.
• Using 'avoid' without an object; always specify what you're avoiding.
• Misplacing 'avoid' in a sentence, leading to awkward phrasing.