What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
leery
Example
I'm a little leery of trying that new restaurant. [leery: adjective]
Example
She looked leery when he offered her the deal. [leery: adverb]
skeptical
Example
He was skeptical of the politician's promises. [skeptical: adjective]
Example
She listened skeptically to his explanation. [skeptically: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Skeptical is more commonly used than leery in everyday language. Skeptical is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while leery is less common and refers to a specific sense of caution or wariness.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between leery and skeptical?
While leery is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, skeptical can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
