Leary vs Leery

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What’s the difference between them?

Leary

Meaning:

Less common spelling of 'leery.'

Examples:

1. Tom was too leary to try the roller coaster.

2. The teacher noticed that Isabel was becoming increasingly leary of her classmates.

3. After the accident, Samantha was leary of taking any risks.

Leery

Meaning:

Leery means to be suspicious or wary of something.

Examples:

1. After being taken advantage of in the past, she was leery of trusting anyone again.

2. She was leery of the stranger's offer to drive her home.

3. He was leery of the new technology, preferring to stick with the old ways.

Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference

Synonyms

Antonyms

Leary

1. Cautious

2. Wary

3. Apprehensive

4. Suspicious

5. Skeptical

6. Dubious

1. Trusting

2. Bold

3. Unafraid

4. Fearless

5. Discerning

Leery

1. Cautious

2. Wary

3. Apprehensive

4. Suspicious

5. Skeptical

6. Dubious

1. Trusting

2. Bold

3. Unafraid

4. Fearless

5. Discerning

Tricks for mastery

Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Leary", "Leery".

1. Both leary and leery are adjectives that mean 'skeptical, cautious, or suspicious'.

2. There is no difference since both spelling are correct. 'Leery' is more popular spelling.

3. If you are in doubt, use 'Leery.'

Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words

Frequently asked questions

In what situations should the word 'Leary' be used?

'Leary' should be used to describe a person who is wary and suspicious. An example of this might be, 'He was leery about the person's intentions.'

When is the appropriate context for using the word 'Leery'?

'Leery' is used in the same way. This spelling is more popular.

Do the two words share the same pronunciation?

Yes, both words have the same pronunciation.

What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?

One of the most common mistakes people make when using these words is confusing them when writing. Although both spelling are correct, 'leery' is more popular variant.

Fill in the gaps to check yourself

1. I am ________ of the consequences of this decision.

2. Joanna was ________ when asked to give a speech in front of a large audience.

3. The company was ________ about the risks associated with the project.

4. I take a ________ approach to most situations.

5. She was ________ of the new technology.

6. David had a ________ attitude towards his tasks.

1. Leery/leary.

Explanation: both spellings are correct.

2. Leery/leary.

Explanation: both spellings are correct.

3. Leery/leary.

Explanation: both spellings are correct.

4. Leery/leary.

Explanation: both spellings are correct.

5. Leery/leary.

Explanation: both spellings are correct.

6. Leery/leary.

Explanation: both spellings are correct.

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List of Commonly Confused Words

Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.