How Do You Spell ASKEW?

Pronunciation: [ɐskjˈuː] (IPA)

The word "askew" is a commonly misspelled word. Its correct spelling is "a-s-k-e-w." The pronunciation of "askew" is [uh-skyoo], which means "not in a straight or level position." The "a" sound in "askew" is pronounced as a schwa or [ə], while the "s" sound is pronounced as a voiced [z]. The "k" and "w" sounds are pronounced as [k] and [yoo], respectively. Remembering the correct spelling with the help of its phonetic transcription can prevent misspelling this word.

ASKEW Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "askew" is an adverb or adjective that describes something that is not aligned correctly or is crooked. When an object or item is askew, it means that it is tilted or skewed from its proper or expected position, thereby conveying a sense of lack of balance or symmetry. It often implies a state of disarray, irregularity, or disorder.

    For instance, if a picture frame on a wall is askew, it means that it is slightly tilted or off-kilter, not hanging straight or perfectly level. Similarly, if someone's hat is askew on their head, it suggests that it is not positioned squarely or squarely placed on their head. As an adjective, "askew" not only describes physical objects but can also refer to non-tangible things like ideas, plans, or moods that are irregular, affected, or uncertain.

    The origin of the word "askew" can be traced back to the Middle English term "askewen," which means "to turn aside" or "to look obliquely." In essence, "askew" signifies a diversion from the norm, a departure from what is considered correct or straight, whether in a literal or metaphorical sense.

    In summary, "askew" denotes a state of being off-center or askance, indicating that something is crooked, slanted, or not in its usual alignment.

  2. Awry; obliquely; aside.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for ASKEW *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for ASKEW

Etymology of ASKEW

The word "askew" originated from the Middle English term "asko" or "asquint", which dates back to the 14th century. This Middle English term led to the formation of the word "askew" as we know it today. The origins of "asko" are uncertain, though it is thought to be influenced by the Old Norse word "skew", meaning "to skew" or "to look obliquely". Over time, the term evolved and came to mean "out of line" or "awry". Today, it is primarily used to describe something that is crooked, slanted, or off-center.

Similar spelling words for ASKEW

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