skew - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
skew Word Meanings
- to turn or place something at an angle
- to distort or biased representation
- to deviate from the truth or correct form
skew Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
skew Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/skjuː/
US
/skju/
skew Word Etymology
(a) skew (root). (b) From Middle English 'skyew', of unknown origin, possibly from the Old Norse 'skewr'. (c) Imagine a crooked line cutting through a straight road, representing distortion; it helps one visualize how things can shift from the norm.
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
Skew as a verb means to turn or place something at an angle, to distort or bias a representation, or to deviate from the truth or correct form. In everyday use you might skew a picture by tilting the frame, skew data by omitting outliers, or skew public opinion by selecting favorable quotes. The noun form refers to the angle or bias itself, or to a distortion that shifts interpretation. Skew often implies an intentional or systematic deviation rather than a minor, random tilt, so learners should watch for context clues like verbs of turning, adjectives like biased, or phrases such as 'skewed toward'.
Usage Reminders
- Use skew for tilting physically or biased representations.
- Apply to data, charts, or narratives to signal distortion.
- The noun form refers to the bias or angle itself.
- Pair with adjectives like biased or distorted to show degree.
- Don’t confuse with tilt for surfaces or with bias as a general attitude.
Common Misconceptions
- Skew does not always imply deliberate manipulation.
- Skew and bias are related but not identical concepts.
- A chart can be skewed without being false, if bias is acknowledged.
- Skew can describe physical tilt as well as data/representation bias.
- The noun form refers to the angle or bias itself, not just the action.
Thinking Differences
English tends to bundle tilt, bias, and deviation under one word, which can blur the distinction between a physical tilt and a biased presentation. Many learners assume skew always implies intent, or that it only applies to data. Other languages often separate the ideas with distinct terms for angle versus bias, helping learners spot context cues more easily.
Learning Tips
- 1) Distinguish tilt vs bias in context.
- 2) Practice collocations: skew toward/away from, skewed data.
- 3) Differentiate the noun and verb forms.
- 4) Look for indicators of intent in the sentence.
- 5) Use charts and narratives to discuss distortion clearly.
- 6) Pronounce: /skjuː/ with a long 'oo' sound.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'skew' mean?
A.To distort or slant
B.To straighten something
C.To enhance the clarity
D.To reduce size
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'skew' correctly?
A.The artist skewed the colors in her painting to create a mood.
B.She decided to skew the cake recipe by adding more sugar.
C.He skewed on the treadmill for half an hour.
D.The report skewed the facts to support the argument.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'skew'?
A.Twist
B.Align
C.Straighten
D.Prevent
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'skew'?
A.Background
B.Tilt
C.Level
D.Contrast
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where one might skew data?
A.Many companies wanted to achieve an accurate representation of their sales.
B.They measured the heights of all the students in class honestly.
C.A scientist might unintentionally adjust her results to fit her hypothesis.
D.The committee decided to equally present all opinions without bias.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App