Formal and Informal Expressions of shirk

In different contexts, you can replace 'shirk' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'evade, neglect' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'dodge, skip' is a commonplace synonym.

shirk: Explore its Definition & Usage

shirk Definition

1to avoid or neglect a duty or responsibility
2to evade work or obligation

Using shirk: Examples

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

Example
He shirked his responsibilities and left the project unfinished.
Example
She always shirks her chores and leaves them for others to do.
Example
Don't shirk your duties as a citizen and vote in the upcoming election.
Example
The employee was fired for shirking work and not meeting deadlines.

shirk Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for shirk

Antonyms for shirk

Phrases with shirk

shirk one's duty
to neglect or avoid one's responsibility
Example
He was accused of shirking his duty as a police officer.
shirk work
to avoid doing work that one is supposed to do
Example
He was reprimanded for shirking work and not meeting his targets.
shirk responsibility
to avoid taking responsibility for something
Example
She was criticized for shirking responsibility and blaming others for her mistakes.

Origins of shirk

from Middle English 'shirken', meaning 'to shrink'

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Summary: shirk in Brief

'Shirk' [shurk] means to avoid or neglect a duty or responsibility, or to evade work or obligation. It can be used in various contexts, such as work, citizenship, and personal relationships, as in 'Don't shirk your duties as a citizen and vote in the upcoming election.' 'Shirk' has synonyms like 'evade' and 'dodge,' and can be used in phrases like 'shirk one's duty' and 'shirk work.'