Literary notes about avoid (AI summary)
In literature, "avoid" operates as a versatile term that often conveys the deliberate act of steering clear of undesirable situations or influences. It is employed to depict characters evading physical danger or scandal, as when a man shuns the crowded streets to escape common perils [1] or a gentleman takes steps to prevent social awkwardness by sidestepping certain conversations [2]. In some writings, the word functions as a guideline for proper behavior—for instance, advising against loud or ostentatious actions to maintain decorum [3]—while in more philosophical reflections it hints at a broader strategy of preserving moral or mental well‐being by refusing to dwell on troubling thoughts [4]. Moreover, its usage in narratives emphasizes personal self-preservation, as seen in characters who consciously refrain from interactions that might lead to discomfort or conflict [5]. Overall, "avoid" emerges as a succinct way to express both physical evasion and preventive restraint across various literary genres.
- He seemed to avoid every street which was the customary passage of mankind.
— from Sybil, Or, The Two Nations by Earl of Beaconsfield Benjamin Disraeli - As he wished to avoid any scandal, he made his wife an allowance, which was arranged by their lawyers.
— from Complete Original Short Stories of Guy De Maupassant by Guy de Maupassant - Avoid the loud, thumping style, and also the over-solemn style.
— from The Ladies' Book of Etiquette, and Manual of Politeness by Florence Hartley - to escape death; but it is much more difficult to avoid depravity, for it runs swifter than death.
— from Apology, Crito, and Phaedo of Socrates by Plato - But for the rest of the time she seemed to avoid looking at him or speaking to him.
— from Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoyevsky