In the command form, "avoid" seems to have a weak connotation. For example, the sentence "Avoid Macaroni and Cheese" almost seems to have the clause "if you can" in it even though it doesn't.
So, is my observation correct that avoid is a weak command or at least has the connotation? If so, what are some alternatives to it that might be stronger?
I considered "Stay away from," but I think the length and separateness makes it lose its emphasis, so I would prefer something shorter.
Perhaps my lighthearted example of "Macaroni and Cheese" mislead some people. My purpose in using "avoid" instead of a command form of "Do not" is because I do not want to specify the action. I want to use it in the context of something like "Avoid alcohol".
Instead of "Do not drink alcohol," "avoid alcohol" includes all sorts of other actions that I would otherwise have to specify (for example, using alcohol in cooking, staying in the company of those who drink alcohol, going to a place with alcohol, etc.)