LOOKING ASKANCE Meaning and
Definition
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Looking askance is a phrase used to describe a particular way or manner in which an individual directs their gaze or examines something. When someone looks askance at something, they do so with suspicion, doubt, or disapproval. This phrase implies a sideways or sidelong glance, which typically involves a slight rotation of the head or a turn of the eyes away from the direct and conventional path of vision.
Looking askance often suggests a level of skepticism or wariness towards the person or object being observed. It may denote a critical assessment, a questioning attitude, or a lack of trust. This expression conveys a sense of guardedness, as if the person's gaze is wary or hesitant, casting doubt on what they see or the intentions behind it.
Figuratively, looking askance can also indicate a metaphorical expression of distrust or suspicion towards a particular situation, idea, or action. It implies a certain level of caution or apprehension, indicating that the observer is hesitant or reluctant to fully embrace or accept what is being presented.
Overall, looking askance signifies a skeptical, dubious, or mistrustful manner of observing or perceiving something, both in its literal and figurative senses.
Common Misspellings for LOOKING ASKANCE
- kooking askance
- pooking askance
- oooking askance
- lioking askance
- lkoking askance
- lloking askance
- lpoking askance
- l0oking askance
- l9oking askance
- loiking askance
- lokking askance
- lolking askance
- lopking askance
- lo0king askance
- lo9king askance
- loojing askance
- looming askance
- looling askance
- loooing askance
Etymology of LOOKING ASKANCE
The phrase "looking askance" has an interesting etymology. It comes from two components: "looking" and "askance".
The word "looking" is the present participle form of the verb "to look", which ultimately comes from the Old English word "lōcian". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*lōkōną". The verb "to look" has the general meaning of directing one's gaze in a particular direction.
The word "askance" is an adverb that means to look with suspicion, doubt, or disapproval. It comes from the Middle English phrase "on skance", which means "on oblique/ slanting". This phrase is derived from the Old Norse word "skakka", meaning "to slope or to slant".
