Avert -

This refers to the physical act of looking away from something undesirable or turning one's mind from a distressing thought [5.1, 5.5].

Examples: "talks narrowly a war," "salt on an icy sidewalk averts accidents," "he sped up and averted an accident" [5.3, 5.4, 5.6]. To Turn Away (Eyes or Thoughts): This refers to the physical act of looking

This implies active effort to stop a disaster, tragedy, or crisis [5.2, 5.5]. At its core, avert (verb) means to turn

At its core, avert (verb) means to turn away or to prevent something unpleasant or dangerous from happening [5.3, 5.6]. It originates from Latin roots meaning "to turn away from" [5.3]. Two Distinct Usages To Prevent or Ward Off (Unpleasant Events): is more passive, often meaning to keep away

Examples: "she her gaze," "I averted my eyes while he dressed" [5.1, 5.5].

is more passive, often meaning to keep away from, stay away from, or refrain from a situation [5.2].

Prevent, ward off, stop, avoid, head off, derail [5.3, 5.6].