awry

Awry is an English word used to describe someone or something that is not in the correct position or not proceeding as planned. It functions as an adverb meaning “in a wrong or twisted way” and, less commonly, as an adjective meaning “not straight or aligned; wrong or twisted.” In usage, awry often describes plans, arrangements, or events that have deviated from the intended course, as in things going awry or a picture hung awry.

Etymology and history

The term originates in the Old English and Middle English period, formed with a prefix that conveys position or direction and a root associated with twisting or turning. The sense of deviation or failure to proceed as intended has remained central in its modern usage. While the exact linguistic lineage is complex, awry has long conveyed the idea of misalignment or misfortune in outcome.

Usage and examples

The standard collocation is go awry: “Plans went awry after the power outage.” It can also describe physical misalignment: “The frame hung awry on the wall.” As an adjective, awry is less common but acceptable: “an awry arrangement.” In both forms, the word signals a departure from what was expected or desired, often with an implication of unintended complications.

Related terms and nuances

Awry is related to synonyms such as amiss, off kilter, and crooked, though each carries its own nuance. It is not a synonym for “awful” or “awfully”; those words have different meanings and connotations. The phrase go awry remains a standard, widely understood way to express deviation from a plan or proper alignment.