What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
obviate
Example
By taking early measures, we can obviate the need for more drastic actions later. [obviate: verb]
Example
The new software will obviate the need for manual data entry. [obviate: verb]
avert
Example
The quick response of the firefighters helped avert a major disaster. [avert: verb]
Example
She managed to avert a crisis by negotiating a peaceful resolution. [avert: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Avert is more commonly used than obviate in everyday language, but both words are used in formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between obviate and avert?
Both obviate and avert are formal words, but obviate is more commonly used in technical or specialized contexts, while avert is more versatile and can be used in various formality levels.
