avoids

Avoids is the third-person singular present tense form of the verb avoid. It describes the act of keeping away from someone or something, or preventing a result from occurring. In ordinary usage, a subject avoids an object: “He avoids crowded places” or “She avoids sugary foods.” The verb can take a direct object (avoid something) or be followed by an -ing clause (avoid doing something), as in “They avoid talking about the issue.” The noun form avoidance refers to the act or habit of staying away from certain situations.

Etymology and history: The verb stems from Old French eviter, from Latin evitare, meaning to shun or escape. The modern form and sense developed in Middle English and have been common since the early modern period.

Usage and nuance: Avoids often signals deliberate restraint for safety, health, or social reasons. It can imply a preference or habit rather than chance. In psychology, avoidance behavior is studied as a coping mechanism; in risk management, avoidance is a strategy alongside reduction, transfer, and acceptance. The term is versatile across contexts, from everyday decisions to formal planning processes.

See also: Related terms include avoidance, avoidable, and avoider, which expand on the concept of staying away or preventing undesirable outcomes.