avoid
verb (used with object)
to keep away from; keep clear of; shun.
have avoided
-
present perfectof avoid.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Lifeguards with the California State Parks’ Santa Cruz District, which includes Seabright State Beach, performed 34 rescues over the weekend and more than 5,000 “preventative contacts” with beachgoers, which may have avoided additional rescues.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 29, 2026
The bulk of Canadian exports to the U.S. have avoided tariffs because they complied with the existing U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade pact.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 21, 2026
Hutchings, who helps lead the Gloucestershire Endometriosis Support Group, said rapid testing could have made a "massive difference" to her life, and potentially could have avoided years of "countless doctors, hospital and A&E visits".
From BBC ● Jul. 11, 2026
More than 1.5 million taxpayers could have avoided paying IRS penalties if the automatic waivers were in place at that time, she wrote.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 8, 2026
With a little sense she could have avoided this whole evening, kept their life in Henry’s house as predictable and safe as her simple braid.
From "Out of Darkness" by Ashley Hope Pérez
