Parlous

Adjective

Definition: Full of danger or uncertainty; precarious.

Definition: Difficult; troublesome.

Synonyms: Dangerous, Precarious, Risky, Precarious, Perilous

Antonyms: Safe, Secure, Certain, Stable

Examples:

The hikers found themselves in a parlous situation, stranded on the mountain during a snowstorm.
The parlous state of the economy has caused many businesses to close down.

Mnemonics:

"Parlous" sounds similar to "perilous," which means dangerous or risky.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "parlous" originated from Middle English and is believed to have derived from an alteration of the Middle English word "perilous."

Historical Usage:

The word "parlous" was commonly used in Middle English and Early Modern English literature to describe a dangerous or precarious situation.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"In a parlous state"

Explanation:

This phrase is used to describe something that is in a dangerous or precarious condition.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "parlous" with "perilous," which has a similar meaning.

Explanation:

While "parlous" and "perilous" have similar meanings, they are not the same word. "Parlous" is a less common term and may be less familiar to some people.