Adverse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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adverse
[ˈædvɜːrs ]
Definitions
in a negative way
Preventing success or development; harmful; unfavorable.
Synonyms
harmful, negative, unfavorable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| adverse |
This term is often used in formal or professional settings, especially in relation to conditions, effects, or feedback that are not good.
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| unfavorable |
Often used in a less intense way to describe conditions, opinions, or outcomes that are not advantageous or supportive.
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| harmful |
This word is commonly used to describe something that causes direct damage or is injurious, often related to health or well-being.
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| negative |
This term is more general and can be used in many situations to describe anything undesirable, unwelcome, or having a poor outcome.
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Examples of usage
- The adverse effects of climate change are becoming more apparent.
- She had an adverse reaction to the medication.
opposed or contrary
Acting against or in a contrary direction; hostile; opposed.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| adverse |
Used when describing something harmful or unfavorable, often in formal or technical contexts such as health, weather conditions, or financial impacts.
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| opposed |
Used when indicating resistance or disagreement with an idea, plan, or action, often in arguments or debates.
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| contrary |
Used when talking about opinions, beliefs, or actions that are different or opposite to what is expected or desired.
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| hostile |
Used to describe actions, attitudes, or environments that are aggressive or antagonistic, implying a certain level of conflict or unfriendliness.
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Examples of usage
- There was adverse criticism of her decision.
- The adverse party in the debate presented strong arguments.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- In psychology, adverse conditions can refer to negative environments that impact mental health.
- Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) are linked to various long-term health issues and behavioral struggles.
- Resilience is often defined by how effectively someone can cope with adverse situations.
Finance
- In finance, adverse selection occurs when one party in a transaction has more information than the other, typically leading to a market failure.
- Risk management strategies often assess adverse conditions to minimize potential losses.
- Investors may seek to avoid adverse market conditions to protect their assets.
Health
- Adverse drug reactions can occur when medications cause harmful effects instead of the desired benefits.
- Health professionals often monitor for adverse reactions in clinical trials to ensure patient safety.
- Certain environmental factors can have adverse effects on public health, leading to increased illness.
Environmental Studies
- Climate change is seen as an adverse factor affecting global ecosystems and weather patterns.
- Natural disasters can have adverse impacts on communities, leading to displacement and loss of resources.
- Urban environments can create adverse living conditions due to pollution and lack of green spaces.
Origin of 'adverse'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'adverse' comes from the Latin 'adversus' which means 'turned against'.
- It entered the English language in the late 1400s, often associated with unfavorable conditions.
- Related words include 'aversive,' which means tending to prevent or avoid something unpleasant.
The word 'adverse' originated from the Latin word 'adversus', meaning 'hostile or contrary'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century. Over time, its usage expanded to encompass a wide range of negative connotations, from describing harmful effects to indicating opposition or hostility.