Definitions
- Describing a feeling of suspicion or distrust towards someone or something. - Referring to being cautious or hesitant about a situation or decision. - Talking about being skeptical or doubtful about the truth or accuracy of something.
- Describing being cautious or watchful about potential danger or harm. - Referring to being alert and careful in a situation that could be risky or uncertain. - Talking about being suspicious or distrustful of someone or something.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe a sense of caution or suspicion.
- 2Both words can be used to describe a state of mind.
- 3Both words can be used to describe a reaction to a situation or person.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Leery is more commonly used in American English, while wary is more common in British English.
- 2Focus: Leery emphasizes suspicion or doubt, while wary emphasizes caution or vigilance.
- 3Intensity: Leery can imply a stronger sense of distrust or skepticism than wary.
- 4Connotation: Leery can have a negative connotation, implying a lack of trust or belief, while wary can have a more neutral connotation, emphasizing caution without necessarily implying distrust.
Remember this!
Leery and wary are synonyms that both describe a sense of caution or suspicion. However, leery emphasizes skepticism or doubt, while wary emphasizes vigilance or caution. Additionally, leery is more commonly used in American English, while wary is more common in British English.
