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precatory

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /prɪˈkeɪtəri/

KK: /prɛˈkeɪtəri/

adjective
Definition

This word describes something that is related to making a request or expressing a desire for something to happen.


Example

The precatory words in the will indicated the deceased's wish for the family to care for the pet.


Conversation
Sloth A
I just finished reading that book about wishes and precatory prayers.
Sloth B
Oh, I heard that one is really interesting!
Sloth A
Yeah, it made me think about how we express our hopes.
Sloth B
Exactly! Sometimes, a little precatory thought can go a long way.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
entreating
supplicatory
wishing
Antonyms
demanding
insistent
commanding
Root Explanation

Precatory is formed from "precari" (meaning to pray) and the suffix "-ory" (meaning relating to or characterized by). The word "precatory" refers to something that is related to or characterized by prayer or entreaty.

Memory Tip

Think of 'praying' ('precari') when you hear 'precatory' — it relates to things that involve prayer or requests.

Visually Confused Words
predicatory
imprecatory
deprecatory
prefatory
predatory
rectory
depreciatory
appreciatory
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