Commonly confused words › adverse vs. averse

Adverse vs. averse

Quick answer

Adverse means harmful or unfavorable. Averse means strongly disliking or opposed to.

adverse

Harmful or unfavorable.

“The drug has few adverse effects.”

averse

Having a strong dislike of something.

“I'm not averse to trying new food.”

How to remember

Averse people Avoid things; Adverse conditions cause Damage.

Test yourself

The flight was delayed by _____ weather.

He's _____ to taking risks.