The phrase "to avoid a recession" means to prevent or stop an economic downturn or decline, where the country or the economy experiences a decrease in business activities, job losses, and a general decline in overall economic growth. Full definition
The question remains: Can the U.S. economy avoid recession if the rest of the world succumbs? (wealthdaily.com)
The Fed's objective seems to be getting by another six months without a 20 % decline in the S&P (stock market) and avoiding a recession over the near term. (canadianbusiness.com)
Australia is one of the few advanced economies that avoided a recession in 2008. (rba.gov.au)