The Farlex Grammar Book > English Spelling and Pronunciation > Common Mistakes and Commonly Confused Words > adverse vs. averse

adverse vs. averse

What is the difference between adverse and averse?

Adverse and averse are both adjectives that have similar—but distinct—pronunciations and meanings.

Adverse (/ædˈvɜrs/ or /ˈædvɜrs/) means “antagonistic, hostile, or inimical; unfavorable or harmful to one’s interests, welfare, or wishes; contrary or in the opposite direction to.” It relates to actions or forces that are external to oneself. For example:

“While the new drug has some great potential benefits, it has too many adverse side effects for me to recommend it.”
“It is certainly an adverse situation, but I’ll just keep trying my best.”
“The adverse current slowed our small boat considerably.”

Averse (/əˈvɜrs/) has the similar meaning of “opposed to or disinclined; having a strong feeling of antipathy, repugnance, or distaste.” Unlike adverse, it is used to describe personal feelings, tendencies, or thoughts, and it is usually followed by the preposition to, as in:

“The company is notoriously averse to changing their centuries-old business model.”
“I’ve always been averse to the smell of onions, ever since I was a kid.”

Spelling Tricks and Tips

As a quick mnemonic trick, just remember that adverse essentially means bad (both spelled with a D). And, if you are averse to something, you have an aversion to it (both spelled without a D).

Quiz

1. Choose the sentence in which adverse is the correct spelling.

a) “She always was rather _______ to having visitors.”
b) “We may have to turn back if the conditions remain so _______.”
c) “The group is not _______ to using physical force to achieve its goals.”
d) “The encounter made me _______ to confrontation.”

2. Choose the sentence in which averse is the correct spelling.

a) “Though dismayed by the _______ outcome, we’re hopeful of a successful appeal.”
b) “I found the environment too _______ to complete my research.”
c) “The product was met with much _______ criticism when it was released.”
d) “I’m not _______ to hearing suggestions.”

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