What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
repugnance
Example
The mere thought of eating snails filled her with repugnance. [repugnance: noun]
Example
He felt a sense of repugnance towards the idea of cheating on the exam. [repugnance: noun]
aversion
Example
She had an aversion to spicy food and always ordered mild dishes. [aversion: noun]
Example
He had an aversion to public speaking and always felt nervous before giving a speech. [aversion: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Aversion is more commonly used than repugnance in everyday language. Aversion is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while repugnance is less common and more formal, often used in academic or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between repugnance and aversion?
Repugnance is more formal than aversion, and is often used in academic or literary contexts. Aversion is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.