| 释义 |
preˈcariously, adv.
[f. prec. + -ly2.]
In a precarious manner. †a. By way of prayer or supplication; at the mercy or pleasure of another; with uncertain tenure; insecurely.
1646Sir T. Browne Pseud. Ep. 42 Having once begot in our mindes an assured dependence, he makes us relye on powers which he but precariously obeyes. 1654H. L'Estrange Chas. I (1655) 200 It was the 19. day precariously moved, 1. That he might be bailed. 1683T. Hunt Def. Charter Lond. 45 If these Courtiers..thought..that all Authorities and Dignities in the Government should be held precariously of the Crown, they ought to hold their honors..by the same tenure. 1690Norris Beatitudes (1692) 21 He holds his Being as precariously as he first received it. 1728Morgan Hist. Algiers I. ii. 27 Certain strangers had as much ground precariously allotted them, as they could cover with an oxe's Hide, which they, fraudulently, cut into Thongs.
b. As a thing assumed gratuitously or taken for granted; without proof; insecurely, uncertainly.
1658Sir T. Browne Gard. Cyrus iii. 57 The Figures of nails and crucifying appurtenances, are but precariously made out in the Granadilla or flower of Christs passion. 1699Bentley Phal. 427 Precariously suppos'd without any manner of Proof. 1705J. Logan in Pa. Hist. Soc. Mem. X. 8 It is still better to have something certain than a greater share precariously. 1836W. Irving Astoria III. xlv. 43 Up this river..they kept for two or three days, supporting themselves precariously upon fish. 1896Current Hist. (U.S.) VI. 822 The fragility of the basis on which the peace of Europe precariously rests. |