verb
eschew
es-CHOO
Eschew (verb) means to deliberately avoid or keep away from something, usually on moral or practical grounds. Example: “The community eschews all modern technology.”
verb
1
formal To deliberately avoid or keep away from something, usually on moral or practical grounds.
"The community eschews all modern technology."
"He eschewed the limelight and gave no interviews for years."
How to use eschew
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo choose not to do or use something, usually because you think it's wrong or unhelpful.
When to use it
Formal and rather bookish; 'avoid' or 'steer clear of' fit most everyday writing.
Memory tip
It takes a direct object with no preposition: 'eschew meat', never 'eschew from meat'.
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Common pairings
eschew violence
eschew publicity
eschew luxury
largely eschewed
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The community _____ all modern technology.
Etymology
From Old French eschiver ('to shun, avoid'), of Germanic origin and related to the root behind English 'shy'.
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 'eschew' and 'avoid'?
'Avoid' simply says you stayed away from something, for any reason including chance. 'Eschew' implies a considered choice to abstain, usually because you consider the thing unwise, unhealthy or wrong.
How do you pronounce 'eschew'?
The standard pronunciation is es-CHOO, with the 'ch' as in 'church'. The variant es-SHOO is also heard, especially in Britain, and is accepted.
What does 'eschew obfuscation' mean?
It is a self-mocking writing joke: the phrase means 'avoid unclear language' while itself being needlessly obscure. It is used to make the point that plain words beat impressive ones.
What is the meaning of eschew?
"eschew" (verb) means to deliberately avoid or keep away from something, usually on moral or practical grounds.
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