WordGarden.iocrabwise
C2Pronunciation
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Meanings
Adverb
sideways or obliquely, like a crab
indirectly or obliquely, especially in approaching a subject
Adjective
sideways, oblique, or crablike in movement or position
Beyond the definition
Just as crabs often move sideways rather than straight ahead, "crabwise" describes movement or direction that isn't direct—it's sideways or at an angle. It brings to mind something moving in an indirect, cautious way. You might see someone approach a difficult conversation crabwise, carefully choosing their words to avoid confrontation. The term is often used for physical movement but can also apply to things like arguments or strategies.
Think of it this way: if you're trying to slip past someone in a tight space, you might move crabwise—not straight toward them, but sliding to the side. It's a vivid word that adds a touch of imagery to descriptions of indirectness. While not very common, it often appears in literature or when describing unusual movement.
"Crabwise" is an adverb and adjective that describes movement or direction resembling the sideways gait of a crab. It implies an oblique or indirect approach—sideways or at an angle—something that doesn't go straight to the point but rather circles around it. The word isn't frequently used in everyday conversation, lending it a slightly literary or descriptive quality.
You might encounter "crabwise" when describing physical movement: the phrase "He edged crabwise along the narrow ledge" paints a picture of someone carefully moving sideways to avoid falling. But its application extends beyond the purely physical. A politician might address a controversial topic crabwise, avoiding direct answers and speaking in vague terms. An argument can unfold crabwise, veering off on tangents before eventually circling back to the original point.
The power of "crabwise" lies in its evocative imagery. It suggests caution, indirectness, and perhaps even a bit of awkwardness. Unlike simply saying something is "sideways," crabwise implies a deliberate, almost calculated approach to avoiding direct confrontation or movement. You might also use it to describe someone's thinking: "She approached the problem crabwise, considering all angles before making a decision." So, if you encounter something moving—or being addressed—in an indirect, sideways fashion, remember that it's happening crabwise. It's a word that brings a touch of quirky visual detail to your descriptions.
Examples
- 1
Sideways movement
The climber moved crabwise across the rock face.
- 2
Moving furniture
We had to turn the wardrobe crabwise to get it through the bedroom door.
- 3
Figurative progress
The talks progressed crabwise, with small advances and sudden setbacks.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- straight ahead
- directly
Used with (collocations)
- move crabwise
- edge crabwise
- approach crabwise
Explore
- lateral movement
- oblique angle
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- crabwiseadjective