avert the problem

[ə-ˈvərt ðə ˈprä-bləm]
verb phrase
evitar o problema
1. to turn away or prevent something undesirable from happening; to ward off a difficulty or crisis
The quick thinking of the pilot helped avert the problem before it became a disaster.
O rápido raciocínio do piloto ajudou a evitar o problema antes de se tornar um desastre.
2. to redirect one's attention or gaze away from something
She had to avert the problem by changing the subject of conversation.
Ela teve que evitar o problema mudando de assunto na conversa.
This phrase is commonly used in both American and Brazilian English in professional, academic, and everyday contexts. In Brazil, 'evitar o problema' is straightforward and widely understood, while in Portugal, 'prevenir' might be preferred in formal settings. The concept reflects proactive problem-solving valued in business and crisis management across both cultures.
NYC Slang
dodge the issue; sidestep the mess
Synonyms / Sinônimos
prevent the problemavoid the problemward off the problemforestall the problemsidestep the problemprevent a crisis
Antonyms / Antônimos
cause the problemcreate the problemallow the problemexacerbate the problemworsen the problem

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
evitar o problema
most common usage across Brazil
São Paulo
evitar o problema; contornar o problema
business and professional contexts often use 'contornar'
Rio de Janeiro
evitar o problema; driblar o problema
colloquial usage includes 'driblar' (to dribble/sidestep)
Portugal
evitar o problema; prevenir o problema
'prevenir' is more commonly used in European Portuguese

Related Words

avertpreventionmitigationobstaclecrisis managementproblem-solvingproactive measures

Related Idioms & Phrases

nip the problem in the bud
head off at the pass
stop something in its tracks
prevent a meltdown
save the day
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