Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈʧɛəɹɪ/

Definitions

• Wary, cautious, or careful about something.
• Reluctant or hesitant to engage in an activity due to a concern or doubt.

Usage Examples

• He was chary of sharing personal information with strangers.
• She gave a chary response, unsure of the implications.

Etymology

The word "chary" is believed to have originated in Middle English from the Old French word "cher," meaning "dear" or "beloved," implying something that is treated with caution due to value. It has evolved to mean cautious or wary.

Synonyms

• Wary
• Hesitant
• Careful
• Reluctant
• Guarded

Antonyms

• Confident
• Careless
• Reckless
• Bold

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The word "chary" can be pronounced with a slight variation in different English-speaking regions, with some speakers emphasizing the first syllable more heavily, while others may soften it.

Historical Usage

Historically, the word "chary" was used to describe cautious behavior in the context of trade or relationships, suggesting carefulness or reluctance based on past experiences or suspicion. Over time, its usage expanded into a broader sense of carefulness and hesitation.

Cultural Nuances

The term "chary" is often associated with being overly cautious or hesitant, sometimes with a negative connotation of being excessively guarded or suspicious. In many cultures, being chary is seen as a virtue in protecting oneself, while in others, it may be viewed as a lack of trust or openness.

More Information

The adjective "chary" reflects a level of caution and consideration that varies in intensity depending on the situation. It can refer to being careful in a specific context, such as a person being "chary of risks," or it can describe general tendencies in behavior, like someone being "chary of new experiences." Its connotations may shift depending on the context, sometimes implying wisdom and prudence, other times suggesting reluctance or unnecessary fear.