askew
What does "askew" mean?
"Askew" describes something that is not in a straight or level position; it is tilted, slanted, or turned to one side. Imagine a picture frame hanging on a wall that has been bumped, leaving it crooked, or a tie that is pulled slightly off-center. This word is often used to describe physical objects that are misaligned, but it can also figuratively describe plans or thoughts that have gone wrong or become disorganized. It carries a slightly sophisticated or literary tone, making it more descriptive than simply saying something is "crooked."
"askew" in conversation
Fixing a mirror
Hey, is this mirror straight?
Hey, is this mirror straight?
Not quite, it's still a bit askew to the left.
Not quite, it's still a bit askew to the left.
Used to describe physical misalignment.
Checking a presentation
The slides look good, but the logo is askew on the title page.
The slides look good, but the logo is askew on the title page.
My apologies, I'll fix the alignment right now.
My apologies, I'll fix the alignment right now.
Used in a professional context for design errors.
"askew" in a sentence
The painting on the wall was askew.
The painting on the wall was askew.
After the earthquake, many of the houses were left askew.
After the earthquake, many of the houses were left askew.
His plan went completely askew when the funding was suddenly cut.
His plan went completely askew when the funding was suddenly cut.
