askance

Askance is an adverb meaning with a suspicious, disapproving, or wary attitude. It describes the manner of looking at something or considering it, often implying doubt about its truth, value, or intentions. In ordinary usage, it most often appears with verbs such as look, glance, or view, as in looked askance at the proposal or glanced askance at the chart. The construction look at something askance is also common.

Etymology of askance is uncertain. The word appears in Middle English texts with the sense of an oblique or doubtful gaze, evolving into the modern usage that denotes scrutiny tinged with distrust or disapproval. Its precise historical path is debated, but the sense has long been tied to a wary or suspicious examination.

Usage and connotations: askance carries a formal or literary tone and is more likely found in writing than in casual speech. It conveys mistrust or skepticism toward a person, plan, or statement, rather than mere curiosity. Related phrases include to view something with or cast a look askance toward something. Alternatives with similar meaning include skeptically, distrustfully, or with a wary eye; antonyms include credulously and openly.

Examples: The committee looked askance at the proposal, questioning its feasibility. Readers may glance askance at a claim that appears overly optimistic.

See also: look askance; askance glance.