Chary
Adjective
Definition: Cautious or wary, hesitant to take risks or be too trusting.
Synonyms: Cautious, Careful, Prudent
Antonyms: Reckless, Heedless, Incautious
Examples:
- She was chary of sharing personal information with strangers.
- He approached the deal with a chary attitude, carefully reviewing all the details.
Mnemonics:
- Think of being "char(y)" and cautious like a cat, always checking its surroundings before taking action.
- Chary rhymes with wary, which means being cautious and watchful.
Etymology:
Origin:
Middle English "cherry", from Old English "cerrig", meaning sorrowful or anxious.
Historical Usage:The word has been used since Middle English and has maintained its meaning of caution and wariness.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Chary of"
Explanation:Used in the context of being cautious, skeptical, or hesitant about something or someone.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing "chary" with "cherry" due to their similar spellings.
Explanation:"Chary" and "cherry" have different meanings and pronunciations. "Chary" means cautious, while "cherry" refers to the fruit.