eschew - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
eschew Word Meanings
- to deliberately avoid something
- to shun or keep away from
- to abstain from or reject
eschew Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
eschew Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪsˈtʃuː/
US
/ɪsˈtʃu/
eschew Word Etymology
The word 'eschew' derives from 'ex-' meaning 'out of' + 'chew' (from Old English 'cēowan' meaning 'to chew'). Originally meaning to chew out or to eat away from, it evolved to signify avoidance. Picture someone spitting out food they dislike, emphasizing their desire to avoid it.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Eschew means to deliberately avoid something, often by choice rather than by accident. It carries a tone of moral or practical decision, suggesting a purposeful rejection rather than mere restraint. You might eschew a habit, a food, or a policy because you believe it is harmful, inappropriate, or unnecessary. The word emphasizes the active, almost ritualistic avoidance, and it is more formal or literary than simple 'avoid' or 'shun'. Etymology traces to ex- out of and chew, originally meaning to chew away from. Now it describes the act of choosing to abstain. Picture someone spitting out something they dislike, signaling a firm decision to keep it at a distance.
Usage Reminders
- Use eschew to denote deliberate avoidance, not casual avoidance.
- It sounds formal or literary, so reserve for written or careful speech.
- It takes a direct object: eschew a habit, a food, or an idea.
- Avoid using with people directly; more common is to eschew gossip, not people.
- You can eschew doing something as well as eschew something.
- Pronounce as eh-SCHOO.
Common Misconceptions
- Eschew is not simply avoid; it implies deliberate, principled avoidance.
- It can refer to avoiding actions, objects, or ideas, not just people.
- It is relatively formal and often found in writing, not everyday speech.
- It does not typically take 'from' after it; you eschew something rather than eschew from something.
- It is stronger than 'reject' or 'refuse' in tone, not a casual synonym for those verbs.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: Eschew is stronger and more formal than avoid; it implies a conscious, principled withdrawal rather than a casual or practical avoidance.
Learning Tips
- Look for nouns or gerunds after eschew: eschew a habit, eschew doing something.
- Reserve eschew for formal or literary contexts; use avoid in everyday speech.
- Compare with shun and refuse to understand nuance differences.
- Practice with several objects: eschew sugar, eschew gossip, eschew fast food.
- Pronounce: eh-SCHOO; link the sound to the idea of pushing away.
- Review etymology to remember the sense of outward, deliberate rejection.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'eschew'?
A.Embrace
B.Appreciate
C.Avoid
D.Accept
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'eschew' correctly?
A.She decided to eschew the opportunity and take the risk instead.
B.He always manages to eschew the most difficult tasks.
C.Their goal is to eschew peace and harmony in the community.
D.The company will eschew the new technology for their next project.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym of 'eschew'?
A.Pursue
B.Embrace
C.Engage
D.Shun
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite of 'eschew'?
A.Avoid
B.Reject
C.Embrace
D.Disregard
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might someone choose to 'eschew' certain foods?
A.At a buffet restaurant
B.While grocery shopping
C.When baking a cake
D.During a diet plan
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