What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cockeyed
Example
The picture frame on the wall was hanging cockeyed. [cockeyed: adjective]
Example
His cockeyed plan to solve the problem made no sense at all. [cockeyed: adjective]
askew
Example
The painting on the wall was hanging askew. [askew: adverb]
Example
Her hat was sitting askew on her head. [askew: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Askew is more commonly used than cockeyed in everyday language. Askew is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts to describe things that are not straight or aligned correctly. Cockeyed is less common and tends to be used more in informal or humorous situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cockeyed and askew?
Both cockeyed and askew are relatively informal words. However, askew can be used in a wider range of formality levels, while cockeyed is more commonly used in casual or humorous contexts.