Sketchily: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from 'sketch', which means a rough drawing, combined with the suffix '-ily' indicating manner.
• It first appeared in English around the mid-19th century, related to the idea of drawing or describing something quickly.
• In art, a 'sketch' is often the first step in creating a masterpiece, hinting at the process of developing thoughts or plans.

Literature

• Writers often use sketchily to describe characters or settings, providing just enough detail to fuel the reader's imagination.
• Examples of works that utilize sketchy descriptions can lead to nuanced interpretations, as readers fill in the gaps in their understanding.
• Many famous novels have sketchy elements to maintain suspense and intrigue, encouraging readers to gather clues slowly throughout the story.

Art

• In the world of drawing and painting, a sketchy style can convey movement and emotion by leaving some areas less defined.
• Notable artists like Leonardo da Vinci frequently made sketchy studies for their final pieces, reflecting their thoughts and ideas in a simplified format.
• The sketchy approach to art allows artists to express ideas quickly, often leading to spontaneous creativity and new techniques.

Psychology

• When people communicate sketchily, it can lead to misunderstandings, as key details might be overlooked.
• Cognitive psychology suggests that our brains often fill in gaps when we receive sketchy information, affecting how we perceive the world.
• Research indicates that people may prefer sketchy outlines over detailed descriptions, as simplification aids memory retention.

Pop Culture

• Sketchily is often used to describe quick plot summaries in movie reviews, engaging audiences without giving away too much.
• In video games, characters might be introduced sketchily to keep players guessing about their backgrounds and motivations.
• Sketch comedy relies on humorous and brief scenarios, often leaving out detailed context in favor of punchy, quick laughs.

Ranking #35,894, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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