CONTRONYMS I
Credit: GAMES Magazine - May/June 1981
Salute to Word Ways
Richard Lederer

SANCTION and CLEAVE are examples of rare words that have contradictory meanings. Sanction can mean both to approve and to condemn. Cleave can mean both to cling to and to separate. Can you identify these seven other self-contradictory words and expressions from their meanings?

1. To endure use well and to deteriorate through use
2. To inspect and to fail to inspect
3. To bring to a conclusion and to start, as a watch
4. To soften and to toughen or make stronger
5. To cut off and to add on, or embellish
6. To fasten and to cut or separate
7. To sprinkle onto, as a powder and to remove a powdery layer

HINTS:
1. As in clothing
5. As a Christmas tree
6. As a newspaper coupon

Answers:

1. WEAR (wear well - wear out)
2. OVERLOOK
3. WIND UP
4. TEMPER
5. TRIM
6. CLIP
7. DUST

NOTE: see also CAN'T MAKE UP MY MIND - Posted 1/22/12