checkered
Pronunciation
Adjective
B1 Intermediate
Quick answer
Marked by frequent changes in fortune, especially including troubled or dishonest periods.
Synonyms and antonyms
Synonyms
mixed
troubled
Usage notes
"Checkered" literally describes a pattern of squares, like a chessboard, before it took on the figurative meaning of an up-and-down history.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "The politician's _____ past made headlines during the campaign."
Answer: checkered
In your own words, what does "checkered" mean?
Marked by frequent changes in fortune, especially including troubled or dishonest periods.
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