unwary

/ n'we ri/

Thân thiện

An unwary tourist leaves his bag unattended on a park bench.

Definition

Adjective: - Not cautious or vigilant; not aware of potential danger or deception: Describes a person, animal, or entity that is not alert to risks, threats, or trickery, making them susceptible to harm or exploitation.

Usage and Examples

The adjective "unwary" is used to describe the state of being off-guard. It often modifies nouns like "traveler," "investor," "victim," or "animal."

• General Use:
  • Tourists are often warned about pickpockets who target the unwary.
  • The trap was designed to catch unwary insects.
• With Prepositions:
  • The scam was aimed at the unwary. (Here, "the unwary" functions as a noun phrase meaning "unwary people.")
  • He took advantage of her unwary nature.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• "The unwary": Used as a collective noun to refer to unwary people as a group.
  • The contract contained clauses that could trap the unwary.
• In Formal or Literary Contexts: Often used to describe a lack of foresight or preparedness in the face of hidden dangers.
  • The legend served as a cautionary tale for the unwary and the proud.

Variants and Related Words

• Unwariness (noun): The state or quality of being unwary.
  • His unwariness led to a significant financial loss.
• Wary (adjective): The direct antonym, meaning cautious and watchful.
  • A wary traveler checks their map twice.

Synonyms

• Heedless: Showing a reckless lack of care or attention.
• Inattentive: Not paying proper attention.
• Gullible: Easily persuaded to believe something; credulous (implies a stronger sense of being easily deceived).
• Incautious: Not cautious; careless of consequences.

Antonyms

• Wary: Watchful and cautious.
• Vigilant: Keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulties.
• Alert: Quick to notice any unusual and potentially dangerous or difficult circumstances.
• Cautious: Careful to avoid potential problems or dangers.

Idioms and Common Phrases

While "unwary" itself is not typically part of a fixed idiom, it is central to many cautionary phrases. - "Prey on the unwary": To exploit those who are not cautious. - Fraudulent schemes often prey on the unwary. - "A trap for the unwary": A hidden danger or trick that catches only those who are not careful. - The legal loophole was a trap for the unwary.

Học thuật

Adjective

1. not alert to danger or deception
   • the shrieks of unwary animals taken by surprise
   • some thieves prey especially on unwary travelers
   • seduce the unwary reader into easy acquiescence- O.J.Campbell