Unfavorably: meaning, definitions and examples

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unfavorably

[ʌnˈfeɪvərəbli ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

used to describe a negative or disapproving manner

In a manner showing disapproval or dislike. In a way that does not have a positive effect. In a way that causes harm or damage.

Synonyms

adversely, disapprovingly, negatively, unacceptably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unfavorably	Used to describe a judgement or opinion that is not positive. His proposal was viewed unfavorably by the committee
negatively	Used to describe a negative outcome or perspective. The survey results were negatively skewed due to the poorly worded questions
adversely	Describes something that has a harmful or detrimental effect. The new law will adversely affect small businesses in the area
disapprovingly	Expresses disappointment or rejection, often in a judgmental manner She looked at him disapprovingly when he suggested they skip the meeting
unacceptably	Indicates a standard that is not acceptable or satisfactory. The level of pollution in the river is unacceptably high

Examples of usage

She reacted unfavorably to the news of his promotion.
The new policy was received unfavorably by the employees.
His actions reflect unfavorably on the company.
The changes in the economy have affected the business unfavorably.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'unfavorably' combines the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' with 'favorably,' which comes from the Latin word 'favorem,' meaning 'kindness or favor.'
The roots come together to convey the idea of a negative stance or viewpoint—essentially saying ‘not in favor.’
It first appeared in the English language in the late 19th century.

Psychology

Evaluating situations unfavorably can lead to a negative mindset, potential anxiety or stress.
Cognitive biases often cause people to view events or experiences in an unfavorably skewed manner, impacting decision-making.
The concept of 'negativity bias' suggests we are more likely to remember and react to negative experiences compared to positive ones.

Pop Culture

In media, characters often react unfavorably to obstacles, creating tension in stories or comedies.
Social media reactions can also turn unfavorably, influencing public opinion about celebrities or events.
Reality shows frequently edit situations to showcase participants in an unfavorably light for entertainment.

Literature

Classic works often depict characters facing unfavorably judgments, accentuating their struggles and growth, like in many of Dickens' novels.
Poets like Sylvia Plath discuss unfavorably experiences to evoke emotion and connect with the reader's vulnerabilities.
In Shakespeare's plays, characters often confront unfavorably scenarios, leading to dramatic pivots or revelations.

Business

In the corporate world, unfavorably decisions or market responses can lead to a reevaluation of strategies.
Surveys often indicate that consumer sentiment can shift unfavorably due to product failures or negative publicity.
Performance reviews reflecting unfavorably on employees can motivate them to improve or seek new opportunities.

Translations

Translations of the word "unfavorably" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desfavoravelmente

🇮🇳 प्रतिकूल रूप से

🇩🇪 ungünstig

🇮🇩 dengan tidak baik

🇺🇦 несприятливо

🇵🇱 niekorzystnie

🇯🇵 不利に

🇫🇷 défavorablement

🇪🇸 desfavorablemente

🇹🇷 olumsuz olarak

🇰🇷 불리하게

🇸🇦 بشكل غير ملائم

🇨🇿 nepříznivě

🇸🇰 nepriaznivo

🇨🇳 不利地

🇸🇮 neugodno

🇮🇸 óhagstæðilega

🇰🇿 қолайсыз

🇬🇪 არახელსაყრელად

🇦🇿 mənfi şəkildə

🇲🇽 desfavorablemente

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,797, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
21794 damning
21795 enthroned
21796 neuroscience
21797 unfavorably
21798 animating
21799 incredulity
21800 rebutted
...