What is another word for averts?
Pronunciation: [ɐvˈɜːts] (IPA) 
Averts is a verb that means to prevent or stop something from happening. Some synonyms for averts include forestall, hinder, impede, obstruct, preclude, stave off, ward off, block, counteract, fend off, halt, and deter. All of these words suggest the action of stopping or preventing something before it occurs. For instance, if you forestall something, you are preventing it from happening in the first place. Similarly, to impede, ward off or block something is to put up some kind of obstacle or barrier that keeps it from occurring. Whether you use the word averts or one of its many synonyms, the meaning is always clear - the action of preventing something from happening.
