Underwhelming: meaning, definitions and examples
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underwhelming
[ ˌʌndərˈwɛlmɪŋ ]
feeling or experience
Not producing the expected or desired result; disappointing or unsatisfactory.
Synonyms
disappointing, lackluster, unimpressive, unsatisfactory.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
underwhelming |
When something fails to meet expectations but not dramatically so; often subtle but noticeable.
|
disappointing |
Used when something does not meet hopes or expectations, leading to a feeling of sadness or letdown.
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unsatisfactory |
Used when something does not meet a set standard or requirement; often implies a need or desire for improvement.
|
unimpressive |
Describing something that does not stand out or fail to make a strong impression; often means below average.
|
lackluster |
When something lacks energy, enthusiasm, or brilliance; not interesting or exciting.
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Examples of usage
- It was an underwhelming performance by the team.
- The movie turned out to be underwhelming despite all the hype.
- The new product launch was underwhelming, with low sales figures.
reaction
To fail to impress or excite someone.
Synonyms
disappoint, fail to impress, leave unimpressed.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
underwhelming |
Use this word when something doesn't meet expectations, but is not completely horrible. It implies a mild disappointment.
|
disappoint |
This word is suitable for more direct and personal feelings of letdown. It indicates a clear failure to meet expectations.
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fail to impress |
Use this phrase when something doesn't cause a strong positive response. It's more neutral and less emotional than 'disappoint'.
|
leave unimpressed |
This phrase is used when one remains neutral or indifferent after an experience. It doesn't necessarily imply strong expectations to begin with.
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Examples of usage
- The presentation underwhelmed the audience.
- I was underwhelmed by the lack of effort put into the project.
Translations
Translations of the word "underwhelming" in other languages:
🇵🇹 decepcionante
🇮🇳 निराशाजनक
🇩🇪 enttäuschend
🇮🇩 mengecewakan
🇺🇦 розчаровуючий
🇵🇱 rozczarowujący
🇯🇵 期待外れ
🇫🇷 décevant
🇪🇸 decepcionante
🇹🇷 hayal kırıklığı yaratan
🇰🇷 실망스러운
🇸🇦 مخيّب للآمال
🇨🇿 zklamání
🇸🇰 sklamanie
🇨🇳 令人失望的
🇸🇮 razočaranje
🇮🇸 vonbrigða
🇰🇿 көңіл қалдыратын
🇬🇪 იმედგაცრუების
🇦🇿 məyus
🇲🇽 decepcionante
Etymology
The word 'underwhelming' is a relatively modern term, first recorded in the late 20th century. It is derived from the prefix 'under-' meaning 'below' or 'less than' and 'whelming' from 'overwhelm', indicating a lack of overwhelming or impressive impact. The term has gained popularity in contemporary usage to describe experiences, performances, or products that do not meet expectations.