Definition

In a careful or cautious way, often to avoid risk or danger.

Example

She approached the situation charily, making sure to consider all possible outcomes before acting.

Conversation

I noticed you’ve been spending your money a little more charily lately.

Yeah, I’m trying to save up for a vacation.

That’s smart! It’s good to be charily with finances sometimes.

Definitely, especially when you have big plans ahead.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Charily is derived from the word "chary" (from Old English "cearig", meaning anxious or careful) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "charily" means in a careful or cautious manner.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'careful' ('chary') and doing something 'in that manner' ('-ly'). This helps you remember that charily means to act with caution.

Visually Confused Words