ASKANCE Meaning and
Definition
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Askance is an adverb that describes a particular way of looking at or thinking about something with a skeptical or suspicious attitude. It suggests a sideways, sideways, or oblique glance rather than a direct and open one. When someone looks at another person or something askance, they do so with suspicion, doubt, or disapproval.
In a social context, looking askance may indicate distrust or skepticism towards someone's behavior, intentions, or motives. It is often associated with a raised eyebrow or a sidelong glance that conveys a sense of questioning or unease. For example, if a person tells an implausible story, others may look at them askance, expressing doubt or disbelief without explicitly saying so.
Figuratively, "askance" can also describe a skeptical or disapproving attitude towards an idea, suggestion, or proposal. It implies a mistrustful or disapproving mindset, often accompanied by skepticism or reservation. For instance, if a company proposes a controversial decision, shareholders might look at it askance, indicating their doubts or objections regarding the idea.
Overall, "askance" is an adverb that conveys suspicion, doubt, or disapproval in one's look, attitude, or mindset. It suggests a sidelong glance or a skeptical approach when observing or considering someone or something.
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Sideways; looking towards one corner of the eye.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ASKANCE
Etymology of ASKANCE
The word "askance" originates from the Middle English word "askun", which came from the Old English word "on sceance". "On sceance" means "upon condition" or "on or at an angle". Over time, the term evolved into "askance", which currently means to look at something with suspicion or mistrust, often accompanied by a sidelong glance.
Idioms with the word ASKANCE
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look askance at sb/sth
The idiom "look askance at someone or something" means to view or regard someone or something with suspicion, doubt, or disapproval. It implies a skeptical or disapproving glance or attitude towards someone or something.
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look askance at sm or sth
The idiom "look askance at someone or something" means to view someone or something with suspicion, doubt, or disapproval. It suggests a skeptical or wary attitude towards a person or an action.
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look askance at
The idiom "look askance at" means to view something or someone with suspicion, doubt, or disapproval. It implies a sideways or questioning glance that communicates skepticism or mistrust.
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look askance (at somebody/something)
The idiom "look askance (at somebody/something)" means to view someone or something with suspicion, doubt, or disapproval. It implies a sideways or sidelong glance that indicates skepticism or distrust.
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look (at somebody/something) askance
The idiom "look (at somebody/something) askance" means to view or regard someone or something with suspicion, disapproval, or doubt. It signifies an intense or skeptical observation of someone or something, often expressed through narrowed or questioning eyes.
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look askance at (someone or something)
The idiom "look askance at (someone or something)" means to regard someone or something with suspicion, disapproval, or doubt. It implies a skeptical or distrustful attitude towards the person or thing being observed.
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look askance
The idiom "look askance" means to view something or someone with suspicion, doubt, or disapproval. It typically indicates a skeptical or distrustful attitude towards a particular situation or person.
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look askance upon (someone or something)
To look askance upon someone or something means to view them with suspicion, disapproval, or doubt. It suggests a sideways glance or a skeptical, critical attitude towards the person or thing being observed.
Similar spelling words for ASKANCE
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