awry
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /əˈraɪ/
KK: /əˈraɪ/
adjective
Definition
In a position that is not straight or correct; turned or twisted.
Example
The picture hung awry on the wall, making the room look uneven.
Conversation
I think something went awry with our plans for the weekend.
What do you mean? Did someone cancel?
Yeah, I was checking the schedule and it looks all awry now.
Oh no! Let's just figure out a new plan together.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
askew
crooked
off-kilter
Antonyms
straight
aligned
correct
adverb
Definition
In a way that is not correct or is turned to one side; not in the right position.
Example
The picture hung awry on the wall, making the room look unbalanced.
Conversation
Did you see how my painting turned out?
Yeah, but it looks a bit awry in some places.
I know, I think I twisted the canvas while I was working on it.
Root Explanation
Awry originates from Middle English 'awry', which comes from the Old Norse 'a' (meaning on) and 'vyr' (meaning to turn). The word describes something that is turned or twisted away from the expected or proper direction.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'turned' ('vyr') 'on' ('a') its side — that's why awry means something is not in the correct position.
Visually Confused Words
wry
ary
tawery
tawdry
bawdry
aweary
avowry