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Dictionary-enhanced synonyms

Synonyms for “Avoid” — 4 Other Ways to Say It

To keep away from someone or something, or to prevent something bad from occurring.

IPA: /əˈvɔɪd/Level: A2Register: neutralPart of speech: verb

Meaning of Avoid

To stay away from or prevent something from happening.

How to Pronounce Avoid

IPA: /əˈvɔɪd/ Stress: oO

Two syllables with stress on the second: uh-VOID. The first vowel is schwa, the second is the diphthong like in voice.

Full pronunciation guide for avoid →

4 Synonyms for Avoid — Words Similar to Avoid

Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.

escape

/ɪˈskeɪp/
verb A2

To get away or run away from something dangerous or unwanted.

Example: The prisoner escaped from jail last night.

prevent

/prɪˈvɛnt/
verb A2

To keep something bad from happening. To stop something before it occurs.

Example: Regular exercise can prevent illness.

evade

/ɪˈveɪd/
verb C1 Formal

To escape or get away from something or someone cleverly. To avoid doing something you should do.

Example: The suspect managed to evade police capture for several weeks.

Smart Synonyms for Avoid — When to Use Each

dodge

when physically moving out of the way

prevent

when stopping something from happening

escape

when getting away from a situation

Antonyms of Avoid — Opposite Words

How to Use Avoid and Its Synonyms in Sentences

  • I try to avoid eating too much sugar. A2
  • She avoided the puddle by walking on the other side. B1
  • Avoiding procrastination is essential for academic success. B2

Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Avoid

What is another word for "avoid"?

Common synonyms for "avoid" include: escape, dodge, prevent, evade.

What can I say instead of "avoid"?

Try one of these alternatives: escape, dodge, prevent, evade. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.

Is "avoid" formal or informal?

"avoid" is generally used in neutral contexts.

When should I use "avoid" instead of "escape"?

Use "avoid" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "escape" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.

What are the antonyms of "avoid"?

Words with the opposite meaning of "avoid" include: face, confront.

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