leery - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
leery Word Meanings
- cautious or wary due to suspicions
- not trusting someone or something
- showing reluctance or skepticism
leery Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
leery Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈlɪəri/
US
/ˈlɪri/
leery Word Etymology
leery = leering (old English) + modern spelling change. Historical origin: Middle English → Modern English. Memory image: Imagine someone peering suspiciously around a corner, eyes narrowed, hyper-aware of their surroundings.
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
Leery describes a wary, suspicious state that goes beyond simple caution. When you are leery of someone, you doubt their motives or honesty, often because you’ve heard bad things or have had a prior experience that makes you cautious. It implies a gut-level hesitation rather than a calculated decision. In everyday speech, you might be leery of signing a contract, accepting a job from an unfamiliar company, or trusting a promise from a person you barely know. The word carries a sense of guardedness and a readiness to question information or actions before giving your trust.
Usage Reminders
- Use leery for strong suspicion, not mild caution.
- Followed by of or that: leery of something, leery that it’s true.
- Often about people, offers, contracts, or promises.
- You can look leery; it describes a visible or felt skepticism.
- Pair with verbs like feel, become, or stay to show change or persistence.
Common Misconceptions
- Leery does not mean simply wary or cautious; it specifically conveys distrust due to suspicion.
- It is not interchangeable with 'leary' (misspelling common in casual speech).
- It can describe feelings about people, offers, or situations, not only people.
- It does not mean angry or resentful; the emotion is distrust, not hostility.
- Native speakers often confuse 'leery of' with 'leery of' being only about deceit; it also covers uncertainty about reliability.
Thinking Differences
Leery conveys distrust sparked by suspicion or prior experience, which is stronger than mere caution. English often marks this with a preposition (of, that) and can pair with look or feel. Learners may over-generalize to other emotions like worry, or translate directly to 'leary' misspellings.
Learning Tips
- Compare leery with wary and suspicious to feel the nuance.
- Practice with 'leery of' followed by a noun and 'leery that' with a clause.
- Notice collocations: look leery, feel leery, stay leery.
- Listen for cues of intuition vs. evidence in context.
- Record personal examples to reinforce usage.
- Check spelling and avoid 'leary' misspellings.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'leery'?
A.Trustful
B.Friendly
C.Cautious
D.Excited
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'leery' correctly?
A.He was leery of the delicious food.
B.I was leery to meet my best friend.
C.She felt leery about the plan.
D.The cat was leery of the mouse.
Step 3: Similar Words
Select the synonym of 'leery':
A.Enthusiastic
B.Suspicious
C.Honest
D.Curious
Step 4: Opposite Words
Select the opposite of 'leery':
A.Vigilant
B.Carefree
C.Afraid
D.Doubtful
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would someone feel leery?
A.When surrounded by friends
B.When entering a known place
C.When met with a stranger
D.When enjoying a familiar activity
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