Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Slightly open: Describes a door, window, or other opening that is not fully closed but is open only by a small amount.

Usage

• The word "ajar" is used almost exclusively to describe the position of a door, gate, window, or lid. It indicates a very small opening, often unintentional or left for ventilation.
• It typically follows a linking verb like "was," "is," or "stood."
• It is not used to describe people, abstract concepts, or most other objects.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • She left the door ajar so the cat could come in.
  • I noticed the window was ajar and closed it securely.
  • The gate stood ajar, inviting us to enter.

Advanced Usage

• "To leave something ajar": This is a common collocation meaning to intentionally or unintentionally not close something completely.
  • Please leave the window ajar at night for fresh air.
• "To set ajar": A slightly more formal or literary way to say "to leave ajar."
  • He set the door ajar and listened.

Variants and Related Words

• Agape (adj): Wide open, especially describing a mouth or eyes in surprise. (Note: This is a different word and not a variant of "ajar," but it is a related concept describing an open state.)
• Open (adj): The general state of not being closed or shut.

Synonyms

• Partly open
• Half-open (Note: This can imply a more deliberate or equal 50% opening than "ajar," which suggests a minimal crack.)
• Unlatched (This specifically means not fastened with a latch, which may result in being ajar.)

Antonyms

• Closed
• Shut
• Fastened
• Sealed

Notes on Different Meanings

• The word "ajar" has only one primary meaning in modern English: describing something slightly open.
• The historical or archaic meaning related to being "in conflict" or "at variance" (as seen in the reference "bất hoà, xích mích") is obsolete and not used in contemporary English. The modern learner should focus solely on the "slightly open" definition.

Adjective

1. slightly open
   • the door was ajar