The spelling of "wide of" is straightforward. It is pronounced /waɪd əv/ and spelled using the common English phrase "wide" and the preposition "of." "Wide" is pronounced /waɪd/ and refers to something that has a large distance from one side to the other. "Of" is pronounced /əv/ and is used to indicate a relationship between two things or to show possession. Together, "wide of" is used to describe something that is situated far away from a target or objective.
"Wide of" is a phrase that is commonly used in English to describe a situation where one’s aim, target, or intention was missed or did not land accurately. It is typically used when referring to a missed shot, throw, or any action that was intended to hit or reach a specific target, but veered off-course or did not achieve the desired accuracy.
The phrase consists of two parts: "wide" and "of." "Wide" refers to the distance or space between two points, suggesting that the intended target was not within that space. It conveys the idea of something deviating from its intended path, going beyond the acceptable range, or missing the target by a considerable margin.
The word "of" in this context expresses the connection or association between the action or object being described and the intended target. It highlights that the referred action or object fails to meet the required precision or accuracy expected and is therefore not in alignment with the objective or goal.
Overall, the expression "wide of" signifies a lack of accuracy or precision, suggesting that the intended target was not hit or reached successfully. It is a commonly used phrase in sports commentary, such as in football (soccer) when a player misses the goal entirely or in cricket when a bowler fails to hit the stumps with their delivery.
The term "wide of" is comprised of two distinct words: "wide" and "of".
The word "wide" originated from the Old English word "wid", which meant "far from side to side" or "broad". Throughout the centuries, its spelling and pronunciation evolved, resulting in the current form "wide".
On the other hand, the word "of" comes from the Old English word "of", which still holds the same meaning in modern English. It indicates something that is part of a whole or associated with someone/something.
When combined, "wide of" implies being distant or far away from something or someone.