Adverse vs. Averse
©Judy Vorfeld
ADVERSE
The adjective "adverse" turns up most often in the phrase "adverse circumstances." This means difficult or unfavorable circumstances, circumstances that act as an adversary (enemy). It's also used to mean "harmful," "hostile," and "opposed to."
Examples: This medication could result in adverse side effects...If this gets to the media, it could reflect adversely on our bottom line.
AVERSE
Averse is an adjective that describes people reluctant to do something, or who have a strong dislike or distaste of something. It's usually followed by the word "to."
Example: I'm not averse to (against, opposed to) learning CGI, but I need time...He was averse to driving on such a dangerous highway.
USING BOTH: Wanda was averse to having the surgery, since she knew of the adverse side effects from anesthesia.
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