pry

[prahy]

pry Definition

  • 1to inquire impertinently or unnecessarily into something
  • 2to look closely or curiously at something
  • 3to raise, move, or force open with a lever

Using pry: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pry" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She always tries to pry into my personal life.

  • Example

    I couldn't resist prying into the mysterious package.

  • Example

    He used a crowbar to pry open the locked door.

pry Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for pry

Phrases with pry

  • to remove or extract something with difficulty

    Example

    I had to use a screwdriver to pry loose the stuck bolt.

  • to investigate or inquire about something that is not one's concern

    Example

    It's not polite to pry into other people's financial affairs.

  • to remove or extract something with a lever or similar tool

    Example

    I had to use a chisel to pry out the old nails.

Origins of pry

from Middle English 'pryen', meaning 'to peer inquisitively'

๐Ÿ“Œ

Summary: pry in Brief

The verb 'pry' [prahy] means to inquire impertinently or unnecessarily into something, to look closely or curiously at something, or to raise, move, or force open with a lever. It can be used in phrases like 'pry loose,' 'pry into,' and 'pry out.' Synonyms include 'snoop' and 'meddle,' while antonyms include 'ignore' and 'neglect.'

How do native speakers use this expression?