Unduly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ซ
unduly
[สnหduหli ]
Definitions
inappropriately
to an unwarranted degree; inappropriately
Synonyms
excessively, unjustly, unnecessarily.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unduly |
Used when something is done or occurs beyond what is appropriate or reasonable.
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| excessively |
Used when something is too much or more than necessary in terms of quantity or intensity.
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| unnecessarily |
Used when something is done without need or reason, implying it was avoidable.
|
| unjustly |
Used when something is done without fairness or justice.
|
Examples of usage
- Unduly harsh punishment
- Unduly restrictive regulations
excessively
to an excessive degree; excessively
Synonyms
immoderately, overly, unreasonably.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unduly |
Used when something is more than necessary or more than what is reasonable, often carrying a connotation of being unfair or excessive.
|
| overly |
Used to describe something that is too much or more than desired, often in a casual or colloquial context.
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| immoderately |
Applies when something is done to an excessive or extreme degree, often with a negative connotation related to excessiveness or lack of restraint.
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| unreasonably |
Applies when something deviates from what is considered rational or fair, often implying that it lacks logical justification.
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Examples of usage
- She was unduly worried about the situation
- The prices were unduly high
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Law
- In legal contexts, 'unduly' is often used to describe actions that exceed reasonable limits, such as undue influence in contracts or decision-making.
- Judges may refer to a claim as 'unduly prejudicial' if it unfairly influences a jury's opinion on a case.
- The concept of undue hardship is frequently invoked in law to assess whether an obligation is excessively burdensome.
Psychology
- 'Unduly anxious' refers to feelings that are out of proportion, signaling a potential anxiety disorder when someone worries excessively.
- People who feel unduly pressured may struggle with stress, as they feel expectations that go beyond their capacity.
- The idea of 'undue stress' highlights that distinct pressures can affect mental well-being and lead to burnout.
Philosophy
- Philosophers discuss 'undue influence' in ethics, analyzing the morality of persuasion techniques that manipulate rather than inform.
- The concept challenges the idea of free will, questioning what it means to make fair choices when influenced unfairly.
- In moral philosophy, the notion of 'undue harm' provokes debates about how actions can wrongly affect others and the limits of ethical behavior.
Cultural References
- In literature, characters facing undue hardship often symbolize larger societal issues, reflecting themes of injustice.
- Social movements frequently highlight how certain groups face undue discrimination, advocating for fair treatment in society.
- In pop culture, films and stories often portray an 'unduly strict' parent or authority figure, introducing conflict and relatable humor.
Origin of 'unduly'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'unduly' comes from the prefix 'un-', meaning 'not', and 'due', which refers to what is appropriate or expected.
- It first appeared in the English language around the late 15th century, adding nuance to discussions about fairness and appropriateness.
- Related terms, like 'due', suggest an obligation or expectation, which ironically highlights the wordโs contrast with what is fair.
The word 'unduly' originated from the combination of 'un-' meaning 'not' or 'opposite of' and 'due' which comes from the Latin word 'debere' meaning 'to owe'. Therefore, 'unduly' implies something that is not appropriately or excessively done or given.