evitar

1. to avoid + infinitivo

not do or not take something

• Evito comer tarde.I avoid eating late.
• Ella evita el café.She avoids coffee.

2. to prevent + subjuntivo

stop something from happening

• El cinturón evita lesiones.The seat belt prevents injuries.
• Cerró la puerta para evitar que entrara el frío.He closed the door to prevent the cold from coming in.

3. to avoid, stay away from

keep away from a person or situation

• Evita a su vecino.He avoids his neighbor.
• Intento evitar las discusiones.I try to avoid arguments.