Caution is Advised. Mean and Miserly is Not.
Generosity of spirit does not always extend to
deed. Our word for this week depicts many folks who exhibit its qualities in
these stressful days …
CHARY (cherʹē,
charʹē) adj. – 1) not taking chances, careful, cautious [to be chary
of offending others]; 2) not giving freely, sparing (chary of his
hospitality). [WW #261]
In one context chary is smart and practical; turn it around and it describes the mildest side of hoarding. Now there is a word that’s getting a lot of attention these days.
Examples of chary are all around
us, as we navigate a new world order. Even if temporarily. Caution in people
contact is smart and advised. Stocking
up is an astute cautionary action. Hoarding unnecessarily, is just plain
mean and miserly.
Excellent word for giving your characters or nonfiction
subject a human dimension. Need help to draw a complete picture of an
imperfect personality, in all its fateful flaws? It’s a fine line that
separates chary from stingy. Make notes on what you see around
you today—physically and virtually—you never know when they can be used to create
a vivid, chary persona.
I’m simply an armchair psychologist, but
perhaps the person who demonstrates a chary personality in a
normal situation is pre-disposed to becoming a hoarder in extraordinary
circumstances.
An interesting article on PsychCentral for instance says, “Many people hoard during normal times, under the rubric of “bulk purchasing.” This is an example of rational hoarding …”
Another term you might hear regarding chary motivations is “panic buying.” What do you think? Feel free to chime in on this, psyche experts!
An interesting article on PsychCentral for instance says, “Many people hoard during normal times, under the rubric of “bulk purchasing.” This is an example of rational hoarding …”
Another term you might hear regarding chary motivations is “panic buying.” What do you think? Feel free to chime in on this, psyche experts!
Word Challenge: CHARY. Being cautious is often advised, but fight the desire to
be miserly, as you fit chary into your week of generous writings.
Learning knows no prejudices or boundaries, and it isn’t fattening!
Expanding your mind is a no-cost, simple joy. Do you feel that way too? What’s
your inspiration? Share your creative genius and Wordplay Wednesday comments below.
Write first for yourself … only then can you write for others. (L.Rochelle)
[LinDee Rochelle is a writer and editor by
trade, and an author by way of Rock & Roll. She has published two books in
her Blast from Your Past series (of
three) about pioneering R&R Radio DJs. True behind-the-mic tales make GREAT
Holiday and anytime Gifts available on Amazon (eBook and print): Book 1 – Rock & Roll Radio DJs: The First Five Years
1954-1959; and Book
2 – Rock & Roll Radio DJs: The Swinging Sixties. Coming soon … The Psychedelic
Seventies!]
*Note: 1) Dictionary
definitions are quoted from Webster’s New World College Dictionary. Yes,
we sometimes present them out of “official” context—but that’s half the fun!
Think of it as “creative context.” 2) Neither I (LinDee Rochelle) nor Penchant
for Penning are responsible for how you use information found here, that may
result in legal action.
E-N-Dzzzzzzzz
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