Definition

Not straight or balanced; often used to describe something that is distorted or biased in some way.

Example

The picture on the wall was skew, making the room look uneven.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I noticed your drawing looks a bit skew in some places.

Yeah, I was trying to create a unique perspective.

It definitely gives it character, but maybe you could straighten it out a bit.

True, I might play around with it to balance the skew lines.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To move or look at an angle rather than straight on.

Example

The picture on the wall was skew, making it look uneven.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you notice how the picture seems to skew a bit to the right?

Yeah, it definitely looks off balance.

I wonder if it's just the frame that makes it skew like that.

Definition

A position or direction that is not straight or is slanted, often causing a change from what is expected or normal.

Example

The skew of the picture on the wall made it look uneven.

Conversation

Have you noticed how the picture seems to have a slight skew to it?

Yeah, it does look a bit off-center.

I wonder if we should try to fix that skew somehow.

Definition

To change something so that it is not straight or level, often causing it to be biased or distorted.

Example

The data was skewed to show a more favorable outcome.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how they skew the data in that report?

Yeah, it really makes their argument look stronger than it is.

I wonder why they decided to skew it that way instead of being honest.

Root Explanation

Skew originates from Middle English 'skewen' (meaning to turn aside or to slant), which is derived from the Old Norse 'skúfa' (meaning to push or shove). The word describes something that is not straight or aligned, but rather turned or slanted.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'turned aside' or 'slanted' — that's what skew means.

Visually Confused Words