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Aversion

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. A strong dislike or unwillingness toward something.
2. A feeling of repulsion or avoidance due to fear, discomfort, or past negative experiences.
3. A psychological or emotional tendency to steer clear of a particular person, activity, or object.
4. In psychology, a conditioned response that causes someone to avoid a specific stimulus.

History and Origin

The word “aversion” originates from the Latin aversio, meaning “turning away,” which comes from averrere (to turn away or avoid). It entered English in the late 16th century, initially referring to the act of turning away from something unpleasant. Over time, it evolved to describe a strong dislike or avoidance of something undesirable.

Detailed Explanation

Aversion refers to a deep-seated dislike or unwillingness to engage with something. It can be physical (like an aversion to certain foods), emotional (like an aversion to conflict), or psychological (like an aversion to public speaking). Unlike mild dislike, aversion often involves a strong reaction, such as discomfort, disgust, or even fear. In some cases, aversion can be a learned response, as seen in psychological conditioning, where negative experiences create lasting avoidance behavior.

Example Sentences

1. She has a strong aversion to spicy food.
2. Many people have an aversion to public speaking.
3. His aversion to heights prevented him from going on the roller coaster.
4. The child developed an aversion to vegetables after a bad experience.
5. She showed a clear aversion to discussing personal matters.
6. He overcame his aversion to swimming after taking lessons.
7. The dog had an aversion to loud noises.
8. His aversion to dishonesty made him a trustworthy leader.
9. Some people have an aversion to crowded places.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Dislike – A general feeling of not liking something.
2. Repulsion – A strong sense of disgust or rejection.
3. Distaste – A mild but noticeable feeling of dislike.
4. Loathing – An intense hatred or disgust.
5. Antipathy – A deep-seated, often instinctive dislike.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Phobia – An extreme or irrational fear of something.
2. Resentment – A feeling of bitterness or dislike due to past experiences.
3. Avoidance – The act of staying away from something unpleasant.
4. Disgust – A strong feeling of revulsion or repulsion.
5. Allergy – A physical aversion or reaction to certain substances.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Abhorrence – A deep hatred or extreme aversion.
2. Detestation – A strong sense of dislike or disgust.
3. Revulsion – A sudden and intense feeling of disgust.
4. Hostility – A strong opposition or antagonism toward something.
5. Nausea – A physical reaction often linked to aversion.

Antonyms

1. Attraction
2. Liking
3. Preference
4. Fondness
5. Affinity