Askew: meaning, definitions and examples
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askew
[əˈskjuː ]
Definitions
in a crooked or asymmetric position
Not in a straight or level position; crooked; askew. Synonyms: crooked, tilted, uneven.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| askew |
This word is used to describe something that is not straight or aligned properly, often in a slightly chaotic or disorderly manner.
|
| crooked |
Commonly used to describe something or someone that is not straight or honest. It can refer to physical objects or metaphorically to someone's character. Often has a negative connotation.
|
| tilted |
Use this word when an object is leaning or inclining at an angle from its expected position.
|
| uneven |
This term is suitable for describing a surface or a set of conditions that are not level, smooth, or regular.
|
Examples of usage
- The picture on the wall was askew.
- She wore her hat at a jaunty angle, slightly askew.
not in a straight or level position
In a crooked or asymmetric position; awry. Synonyms: crookedly, lopsidedly.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| askew |
Use when something is not straight or in the correct position. It often describes things that have an element of disorder or confusion.
|
| crookedly |
Used when something is not straight, often with a slight connotation of being bent or twisted out of shape. It can imply a more deliberate movement or position.
|
| lopsidedly |
Describes something that is unevenly balanced or disproportionately weighted on one side. Often used to describe physical objects or abstract concepts that lack symmetry or balance.
|
Examples of usage
- The frame hung askew on the wall.
- The painting was hanging askew.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'askew' comes from the Old Norse word 'skew,' meaning 'to turn away.'
- It has been part of the English language since the 14th century, evolving to describe things that are slanted or crooked.
Art
- In art, an askew composition can create tension or interest, drawing viewers' eyes in unexpected directions.
- Famous artists like Vincent van Gogh often used askew angles in their work to evoke emotion and dynamic movement.
Architecture
- Buildings that are intentionally askew, like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, can become famous landmarks, attracting tourists.
- Architects sometimes design askew structures to challenge traditional aesthetics or to fit unique landscapes.
Popular Culture
- In movies, askew perspectives are often used in films to signify a character's confusion or instability.
- Fashion trends may embrace an askew look, where clothes are designed to appear uneven or unconventional, making a bold statement.
Psychology
- People may perceive things as 'askew' in their lives when they feel a lack of control or balance, leading to emotional distress.
- The concept of 'meshing' in psychology relates to how a person’s thoughts can feel disordered, similar to viewing an askew object.
Translations
Translations of the word "askew" in other languages:
🇵🇹 torto
- inclinado
- desalinhado
🇮🇳 झुका हुआ
- तिरछा
- असमान
🇩🇪 schief
- schräg
- verdreht
🇮🇩 miring
- menyimpang
- tidak lurus
🇺🇦 кривий
- похилий
- перекошений
🇵🇱 krzywy
- skośny
- przekrzywiony
🇯🇵 傾いている
- 曲がった
- 斜めの
🇫🇷 incliné
- de travers
- tordu
🇪🇸 torcido
- inclinado
- desviado
🇹🇷 eğik
- yamuk
- çarpık
🇰🇷 비스듬한
- 기울어진
- 삐뚤어진
🇸🇦 مائل
- مائل
- مشوه
🇨🇿 nakloněný
- šikmý
- křivý
🇸🇰 naklonený
- šikmý
- krivý
🇨🇳 倾斜的
- 歪的
- 不正的
🇸🇮 nagnjen
- ukrivljen
- poševnjen
🇮🇸 skakkur
- hallandi
- skekkur
🇰🇿 қисық
- қисайған
- бұрышты
🇬🇪 ხლართული
- დახრილი
- მოჭრილი
🇦🇿 eğilmiş
- meyilli
- əyilmiş
🇲🇽 torcido
- inclinado
- desviado