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wary
IPA:
Dictionary definition of wary
Cautious, alert, or vigilant due to potential risks, dangers, or suspicions.
"After the break-in, she became wary of leaving her house unattended."
Detailed meaning of wary
When someone is wary, they exercise caution and maintain a sense of wariness or wariness towards a situation, person, or thing. It implies being watchful and hesitant, often arising from a sense of awareness of potential harm, deceit, or unfavorable outcomes. A wary individual may exhibit skepticism or doubt, carefully assessing the circumstances before making decisions or taking action. They may be guarded in their interactions, keeping a distance or being reluctant to trust easily. Being wary serves as a protective mechanism, helping individuals avoid potential harm or negative consequences by remaining attentive and mindful of their surroundings and the intentions of others.
Example sentences containing wary
1. The hiker was wary of venturing too close to the edge of the cliff.
2. The detective approached the suspect with a wary expression.
3. The child was wary of the unfamiliar dog and kept a safe distance.
4. The company was wary of entering into a partnership without proper research.
5. The traveler was wary of scams and carefully checked reviews before booking accommodations.
6. The team remained wary of their opponent's tactics throughout the game.
History and etymology of wary
The adjective 'wary' has its etymological roots in Old English. It is derived from the Old English word 'wær,' which means 'caution' or 'wariness.' In Old English, 'wær' denoted a state of being cautious, alert, or vigilant due to potential risks, dangers, or suspicions. Over time, this term evolved into the modern English 'wary,' retaining its original sense of vigilance and caution. When someone is described as 'wary,' it suggests that they are watchful and circumspect, careful in their actions and decisions, and alert to potential threats or uncertainties. The etymology of 'wary' underscores its historical association with the concept of caution and the need to exercise vigilance in navigating potential dangers or uncertainties.
Further usage examples of wary
1. She was wary of strangers and avoided giving out personal information.
2. The investors were wary of the stock market's volatility and decided to diversify their portfolio.
3. The cat approached the new toy with a wary curiosity.
4. He was wary of making promises he couldn't keep, so he carefully chose his words.
5. The customer was wary of buying the product without reading reviews first.
6. After the recent break-in, she became more wary of strangers.
7. The hikers were wary of the approaching thunderstorm.
8. He was wary of sharing personal information online.
9. The detective remained wary of the suspect's alibi.
10. She felt wary of accepting the offer without more details.
11. Being in a new city, he was naturally wary of his surroundings.
12. The team remained wary of the opponent's strong offense.
13. The investor was wary of the stock market's volatility.
14. After the data breach, the company became more wary of cyber threats.
15. The dog was always wary of strangers approaching the house.
16. She grew wary of his promises after he broke them before.
17. Travelers should be wary of pickpockets in crowded areas.
18. He was naturally wary of venturing into the dark forest alone.
19. The company's employees were wary of the upcoming layoffs.
20. The villagers were wary of the mysterious noises in the night.
21. The hiker remained wary of the slippery mountain trail.
22. As a journalist, he was naturally wary of fake news sources.
23. She was wary of the potential side effects of the medication.
24. The explorers were wary of encountering dangerous wildlife.
25. They were wary of the strange behavior of their new neighbor.
Synonyms
Quiz categories containing wary
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ACT 12 (American College Testing), Insight and Intrigue, Caution and Prudence
apprehensive,careful,cautious,circumspect,hesitant,skeptical,suspicious,vigilant
alert,distrustful,guarded,watchful
cautious, careless, incautious, reckless
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