Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/əˈvɜːrʒən/ (uh-VUR-zhuhn)

Definitions

• 1. (Noun) A strong feeling of dislike or disgust.
• 2. (Noun) The action of turning away from or avoiding something or someone.
• 3. (Noun) A mental state characterized by a strong dislike, repulsion, or avoidance of something.

Usage Examples

• "She has a strong aversion to seafood."
• "His aversion to public speaking made him nervous during the meeting."
• "The smell of garbage filled the air, causing an aversion to walking near the alley."

Etymology

The word "aversion" comes from the Latin "aversio," which means "a turning away," from the verb "averti," meaning "to turn away." The term evolved in English in the 16th century to signify a strong feeling of opposition or dislike, often accompanied by avoidance or rejection. It was used primarily in psychological and emotional contexts to describe a deep-seated repulsion or distaste.

Synonyms

• Dislike
• Repulsion
• Antipathy
• Hostility
• Loathing
• Abhorrence
• Distaste
• Disgust

Antonyms

• Affinity
• Fondness
• Attraction
• Love
• Sympathy
• Empathy
• Admiration
• Enjoyment

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "aversion" typically remains consistent across English-speaking regions. However, in some areas, the first syllable may be pronounced with a longer "a" sound, especially in more formal or emphatic speech. The stress tends to fall on the second syllable in most varieties of English.

Historical Usage

First used in the 16th century, "aversion" was initially employed in contexts that referred to a turning away from something physically. By the 17th century, its use expanded to denote a strong emotional or psychological feeling of dislike, which is how it is used today. The word has been employed in both everyday and formal speech, often used to describe both personal feelings and the broader social reactions to certain behaviors or events.

Cultural Nuances

In various cultures, "aversion" can carry significant emotional weight. In Western cultures, it is often linked with personal preference and distaste. In contrast, in other cultures, such as those in Asia, the concept of aversion may be less about emotional dislike and more about avoiding social discord or confrontational behavior. This distinction can impact how the term is perceived in different cultural contexts.

More Information

"Aversion" is often used in psychological contexts to describe the strong emotional response one might have to certain stimuli or situations. It can also be used in everyday conversation to describe simple dislikes, such as an aversion to particular foods or activities. The term is important in discussions about emotional well-being and decision-making, particularly when explaining avoidance behavior or discomfort in social situations.