avoid
verb (used with object)
to keep away from; keep clear of; shun.
have been avoiding
-
present perfect progressiveof avoid.present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
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.
Researchers suggest these animals may have been avoiding the area or shifting their activity patterns to reduce encounters with the much larger predators.
From Science Daily ● Jun. 28, 2026
The tech companies that are largely funding the AI boom have been avoiding that riddle.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 5, 2026
The patient needs to have an entire program of care, but they have been avoiding the doctor because they are afraid to do the work of taking care of themselves properly.
From Salon ● May 29, 2025
For almost 20 years, both sides have been avoiding – and preparing for – the next one.
From BBC ● Oct. 12, 2024
“Now—right now. Both of you have been avoiding me. Why?”
From "Flowers for Algernon" by Daniel Keyes
