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eschew

Eschew (verb) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

verb

IPA:

/ɪsˈtʃuː/

What does eschew mean?

To deliberately avoid something, typically because it is considered undesirable or harmful.
"He decided to eschew his family's traditional career path and pursue his passion."

Detailed Meaning of Eschew

It implies a conscious and intentional choice to abstain from something. It can be used to describe the act of avoiding or steering clear of certain behaviors, habits, or activities.

In everyday language, eschew is often used to describe the act of deliberately avoiding something, typically because it is considered undesirable or harmful. It implies a conscious and intentional choice to abstain from something. It can be used to describe the decision to give up something or to avoid something for moral or ethical reasons.

In religion or philosophy, it can refer to the act of renouncing or abstaining from certain behaviors or practices.

In general, Eschew is a verb that means to deliberately avoid something, typically because it is considered undesirable or harmful. It implies a conscious and intentional choice to abstain from something and can be used in different contexts such as personal, religious, or philosophical situations where the decision to avoid or abstain from something is present.

Example Sentences for Eschew

1. He chose to eschew fast food in favor of healthier options.
2. Environmentalists encourage people to eschew single-use plastics.
3. She decided to eschew social media for a digital detox.
4. The wise leader eschewed conflict in favor of diplomacy.
5. To maintain his health, he decided to eschew smoking.
6. They eschewed extravagant spending and opted for frugality.

Origin and Etymology of Eschew

The verb 'eschew' has its origins in Old English, where it was spelled as 'ascéowan' or 'ascéawian.' It is believed to be related to the Old High German word 'scouwen,' meaning 'to shun' or 'to avoid.' In its early usage, 'eschew' meant to deliberately avoid or shun something, often because it was considered undesirable or harmful. The word conveys the idea of a deliberate choice to steer clear of something, reflecting a sense of caution or aversion. As 'eschew' evolved into modern English, it retained this essential meaning, describing the action of consciously avoiding or abstaining from something, typically due to a perception of it being undesirable or detrimental. The etymology of 'eschew' underscores the concept of a deliberate and cautious avoidance, emphasizing the idea of consciously staying away from something considered undesirable or harmful.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb eschew:

welcome

seek

embrace

avoid

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Eschew

1. The artist preferred to eschew conventional techniques.
2. She tried to eschew negative thoughts and focus on positivity.
3. Eschewing gossip, she maintained a reputation for discretion.
4. The company vowed to eschew unethical business practices.
5. Many people eschew public speaking due to anxiety.
6. He chose to eschew alcohol to lead a sober lifestyle.
7. The chef decided to eschew artificial additives in his dishes.
8. In their minimalist lifestyle, they eschewed excess possessions.
9. To reduce waste, they eschewed single-serving products.
10. Eschewing shortcuts, he completed the task with thoroughness.
11. She eschewed the limelight, preferring a private life.
12. The team decided to eschew traditional strategies for innovation.
13. He eschewed the path of vengeance, opting for forgiveness.
14. Eschewing distractions, she focused on her studies.
15. He chose to eschew material possessions in favor of a simple life.
16. He has been sober for ten years and tends to eschew parties where alcohol is served.
17. She decided to eschew meat in her diet for health and ethical reasons.
18. The company decided to eschew traditional advertising methods and focus on social media.
19. The artist decided to eschew the use of color in his work to create a more powerful effect.
20. The school decided to eschew traditional teaching methods in favor of a more interactive approach.
21. The organization decided to eschew lobbying and instead focused on grassroots activism.
22. The scientist decided to eschew traditional research methods and instead focused on experimentation.
23. The company decided to eschew its previous business model and focus on a more sustainable approach.
24. The individual decided to eschew a traditional 9-5 job and instead work as a freelancer.
25. The group decided to eschew violence and instead focus on peaceful protest.
26. The government decided to eschew military intervention and instead focus on diplomacy.