Want to say prying differently? Here are other words for prying and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.
Meaning of prying
The primary meaning of the word "prying" is showing an excessive curiosity about someone's private affairs.
Etymology of prying
The word "prying" has its roots in the Old English word "prīan", which means "to ask, inquire, or investigate".
The word has been used in English since the 15th century, initially with the meaning of "to ask or inquire", and later developing the connotation of "excessive curiosity" or "meddling".
Synonyms
inquisitive
curious
nosy
intrusive
meddling
interfering
snooping
spying
eavesdropping
scrutinizing
examining
investigating
probing
searching
inquiring
questioning
interrogating
inspecting
checking
observing
watching
peering
prying
peeking
glancing
staring
gazing
intrusive
obtrusive
importunate
officious
impertinent
forward
presumptuous
pushy
aggressive
persistent
annoying
irritating
bothersome
troublesome
meddlesome
interfering
obstructive
hindering
impeding
Definitions
- Oxford Languages defines "prying" as showing an excessive curiosity about someone's private affairs, or trying to find out about them by asking questions or looking at their private things.
- It can also refer to the act of using force or effort to open or move something, such as a lid or a door.
Usage Examples
- She was accused of prying into her neighbor's private life by constantly asking personal questions.
- The detective was prying into the suspect's alibi to see if it checked out.
- The child was prying open the lid of the jar to get to the cookies inside.
Antonyms
discreet
tactful
considerate
thoughtful
respectful
polite
courteous
mannerly
civil
unobtrusive
unintrusive
restrained
reserved
distant
aloof
indifferent
uninterested
uninquisitive
incurious
oblivious
indifferent
neglectful
inattentive
unconcerned