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.

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