These two words, AVERSE and ADVERSE are often mixed up only because of their close similarity in spelling. Their meanings do not approximate each other in any way, however.
When one is AVERSE, he is “not inclined” to something. It is usually followed by the word “to”. A rule that must be observed: AVERSE cannot immediately precede the noun it modifies.
EXAMPLE: This fellow is a bum, and is certainly averse to hard work.
WRONG: This averse fellow doesn’t like hard work.
ADVERSE usually takes on a negative context, and can mean “harmful”, “hostile”, unfavorable”, etc. Hence, the noun “Adversary”, which connotes an enemy or opponent. Adverse is more used in reference to objects and things rather than to people. It is also sometimes followed by the preposition “to”, especially in more formal writing.
EXAMPLE: The carelessness of Mr. X in his work will certainly be adverse to the success of our project.
Other uses of ADVERSE are often in the context of situations like Adverse Weather, Adverse Road Conditions, etc.
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