How Do You Spell SHY OF?

Pronunciation: [ʃˈa͡ɪ ɒv] (IPA)

The phrase "shy of" is commonly used to describe being just short of a certain goal or target. In IPA phonetic transcription, the "sh" sound is represented by the symbol /ʃ/, followed by the "ai" sound represented by /aɪ/. The "y" sound in "shy" is represented by /j/. Finally, the word "of" is spelled as it is pronounced, with the sound of the letter "o" represented by /ɒ/, and the "f" sound represented by /f/. Therefore, the IPA phonetic transcription for "shy of" is /ʃaɪ ɒf/.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
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SHY OF Meaning and Definition

  1. The phrase "shy of" is an idiom used to express a lack or a small amount of something, usually by a small margin or a slight distance. It indicates being just short of a particular measurement, goal, achievement, or threshold. This expression is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts.

    In a literal sense, it can be employed to describe physical distances, such as when an individual falls just short of reaching a specific location, like being shy of a mile, or when an object is slightly less in size or quantity than what is desired.

    Figuratively, "shy of" often refers to being slightly deficient in meeting expectations, targets, or requirements. This can pertain to aspects like time, numbers, or quality, suggesting a minor shortfall or inadequate performance. For instance, a person may be shy of completing a project deadline by a few minutes, or a company's sales may fall shy of their annual target by a small margin.

    Additionally, "shy of" can signify an emotional or psychological state. It commonly indicates someone's reserved or introverted nature, implying a hesitance or reluctance to engage in social interactions or express oneself openly due to a sense of timidity, self-consciousness, or insecurity.

    Overall, the phrase "shy of" denotes a slight deficiency, shortfall, or hesitation, whether it be in terms of physical presence, achievement, expectation, or emotional disposition, highlighting a situation just below a desired or anticipated level.

Common Misspellings for SHY OF

  • ahy of
  • zhy of
  • xhy of
  • dhy of
  • ehy of
  • why of
  • sgy of
  • sby of
  • sny of
  • sjy of
  • suy of
  • syy of
  • sht of
  • shg of
  • shu of
  • sh7 of
  • sh6 of
  • shy if
  • shy kf
  • shy lf

Etymology of SHY OF

The phrase "shy of" has an interesting origin. It comes from the Middle English word "scheye", which means "to startle" or "to frighten". In Middle English, "shien" or "sheen" were also used as alternatives. Over time, the meaning evolved to include being hesitant, cautious, or reluctant. The modern usage of "shy of" emerged in the 19th century, and it now commonly means "not quite reaching" or "just short of" a particular amount, distance, or goal.

Idioms with the word SHY OF

  • fight shy of The idiom "fight shy of" means to avoid or be cautious about getting involved in something or someone, typically due to being hesitant, distrustful, or fearful of potential consequences or risks.
  • shy of sth The idiom "shy of something" is usually used to express a slight deficiency or shortfall in achieving a certain amount, number, or target. It implies being close to a particular goal or measurement, but falling slightly short of reaching it.
  • one brick shy of a load The idiom "one brick shy of a load" is used to describe someone who is lacking intelligence, common sense, or mental capacity. It implies that the person is incomplete or missing something essential, similar to a load of bricks missing one.
  • bricks shy of a load The idiom "bricks shy of a load" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who is lacking intelligence or common sense. It suggests that the person's mental capacity is incomplete, likening them to a load of bricks where one or more are missing. Essentially, it implies that the person is not fully "with it" or is mentally deficient in some way.
  • one brick shy of a (full) load The idiom "one brick shy of a (full) load" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who is perceived as lacking in intelligence, mental capacity, or common sense. It suggests that the person is missing an essential component or is not mentally fully equipped, similar to a load that is incomplete or unbalanced due to the absence of a brick.
  • be one card shy of a (full) deck The idiom "be one card shy of a (full) deck" means that someone is lacking intelligence or mental competence, suggesting that they are not fully rational or mentally stable. It implies that the person is missing something essential or important to be considered "normal" or well-functioning.
  • one card shy of a (full) deck The idiom "one card shy of a (full) deck" is used to describe someone as being mentally deficient or lacking intelligence. It suggests that someone is not as knowledgeable or smart as they should be, comparing them to a deck of cards where one card is missing.
  • fight shy of (someone or something) The idiom "fight shy of (someone or something)" means to be cautious or hesitant in approaching or dealing with someone or something, generally due to being wary, reluctant, or apprehensive about possible negative consequences or outcomes. It implies keeping a distance or avoiding involvement with the mentioned person or thing.
  • three bricks shy of a load The idiom "three bricks shy of a load" is used to describe someone who is lacking intelligence, mental capacity, or common sense. It suggests that the person is not functioning at full potential and is somewhat mentally deficient.
  • a few bricks shy of a load The idiom "a few bricks shy of a load" is used to describe someone who is not very intelligent, mentally unstable, or lacking common sense. It suggests that the person lacks some necessary or essential qualities to be complete or sufficient, likening their mental capacity to a load of bricks that is missing a few.
  • fight shy of sth/doing sth The idiom "fight shy of sth/doing sth" refers to being hesitant, avoiding or being reluctant to engage in or undertake something. It indicates an unwillingness or caution towards a particular action, relationship, or situation due to past negative experiences, fear, or uncertainty.
  • fight shy of something/of doing something The idiom "fight shy of something/of doing something" means to avoid or be reluctant to engage in or confront something, typically due to fear, uncertainty, or a lack of confidence. It implies a cautious approach or a tendency to keep a distance from a particular action or situation.

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Correct spelling for shy of
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