ENGLISH
REFERENCE

awry

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ɝˈaɪ// UK //ɐɹˈaɪ// awry

adj. not in the correct position or direction. You use this to describe something that is slightly off or not quite right.

adj. not in the correct or intended position, direction, or state. Often used to describe a slight misalignment or a failure to achieve a desired result.


SIMPLE

The picture is slightly awry on the wall.

CONTEXTUAL

The plan went awry when the main speaker arrived late and forgot her notes.

COMPLEX

The delicate balance of the ecosystem was thrown slightly awry by the sudden introduction of an invasive species that outcompeted the native plants for nutrients.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English awry, awrie. By surface analysis, a- + wry.

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