Wary
easyNeutral toneWAIR-ee
adjective
Definition
cautious and watchful of danger or trouble
Memory hook
WARY: you WORRY and stay aWARE, so you're WARY of anything that looks off.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Investors grew wary after the third straight quarter of losses.”
“She kept a wary eye on the stranger lingering near her car.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Investors grew ______ after the third straight quarter of losses.”
Show answer
wary
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Wary is a easy-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "cautious" or "guarded" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "careless".
Related GRE Words
circumspect
Wary and unwilling to take risks; cautious
prudent
Acting with or showing care and thought for the future
discreet
Careful and prudent in speech or action; not drawing attention
antagonize
To cause someone to become hostile or angry
apathy
Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern
composed
Having one's feelings and expression under control; calm
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