averse
Definitions
Strongly disliking or unwilling to do something (usually 'averse to').
（对…）反感的，不愿意的
Root Breakdown
Root-deriveda- (a worn-down form of ab- 'away') + verse (turn) = 'turned away from.' If you are averse to risk, you instinctively turn away from it.
Root vers still carries 91 more wordsUsage Guide
Almost always followed by 'to' (averse to change), not 'of' or 'from.' Often appears in the negative 'not averse to,' a polite British understatement meaning 'quite happy to.' Don't confuse with 'adverse' (= harmful, unfavorable): adverse weather vs averse to weather.
Example Sentences
- 1.
She is averse to taking unnecessary risks with money.
- 2.
He's not averse to a glass of wine now and then.
- 3.
Most investors are risk-averse during a downturn.
Easily Confused
averse vs adverse — averse describes a person's feeling (turned away from something): I'm averse to risk. adverse describes a thing's effect (working against you): adverse weather, adverse effects. Test: a person is averse; conditions are adverse.