- Published on
(A proofreader's note regarding “adverse” and “averse”)
“Adverse” and “averse,” although visually similar
Apart from a “d” to divide,
As adjectives serve that are strikingly different
While sharing “against” as their guide.
“Adverse” in its meanings of “acting against one,”
“Unfavorable,” “hostile,” and “bad,”
Describes mostly things that are truly external,
Not feelings internal we've had.
In contrast, “averse” has a focus that's personal,
Relating a state more than angst--
“Disliking, “opposed,” and “unwilling,” “reluctant,”
Descriptors of feeling against.
“Averse” is distinguished as different in usage
When “to” is seen tacked on as tail.
A noun may precede it to herald its coming,
As other words also unveil.
When choosing between the two words of our study,
“Aversion” may serve as a key:
If thinking “averse” is then linked to “aversion,”
Reminder of “feeling” comes free.
“The hiker retreated, 'averse to' rock climbing,
But claimed he was not 'risk averse.'
'Averse' was his partner though hiding her feelings,
Contending that naught was 'adverse.'”