Unfulfilled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unfulfilled
[ˌʌnfʊlˈfɪld ]
Definition
feeling or goal
Not achieved or realized; not fulfilled.
Synonyms
unaccomplished, unattained, unmet, unrealized.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unfulfilled |
This word is often used to describe dreams, desires, or potential that have not been achieved or satisfied, often with a sense of emotional longing or disappointment.
|
| unmet |
This word is commonly used in reference to needs, expectations, or requirements that have not been satisfied or fulfilled. It often has a sense of deficiency or necessity.
|
| unrealized |
This word generally refers to potential, plans, or intentions that have not been brought to fruition or achieved. It is often used in financial or investment contexts.
|
| unaccomplished |
This word typically refers to tasks or goals that have not been completed or achievements that have not been reached. It's often used in a more general or objective sense.
|
| unattained |
This word is usually used to describe goals or statuses that have not been reached. It often implies a level of effort that was made but did not succeed.
|
Examples of usage
- The unfulfilled promises left the employees feeling disappointed.
- She had many unfulfilled dreams and aspirations.
- The unfulfilled potential of the young athlete was evident to all.
- The unfulfilled expectations led to a sense of dissatisfaction.
- The unfulfilled desire for adventure lingered in his mind.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Themes of unfulfillment are often central in literature, depicting characters who seek meaning or purpose and find it elusive.
- Classic novels often explore unfulfilled desires, such as in 'The Great Gatsby', where the pursuit of an unattainable dream leads to tragedy.
- Poetry frequently captures the feeling of unfulfilled ambitions, revealing deep emotional struggles within just a few lines.
Psychology
- Here, unfulfilled aspirations can contribute to feelings of dissatisfaction, which is often linked to mental health issues like depression or anxiety.
- Research shows that individuals who set realistic goals experience higher overall life satisfaction compared to those with unattainable ambitions.
- A key concept in psychology is the 'thwarted expectation', where unmet goals can lead to emotional distress.
Pop Culture
- Unfulfilled dreams feature prominently in many movies and songs, often highlighting characters' struggles with unrealized ambitions.
- Television series often depict characters facing unfulfilled lives, sparking discussions about personal goals and societal expectations.
- Pop music frequently explores unfulfilled love or dreams, resonating with listeners who share similar feelings.
Philosophy
- Philosophers argue about the nature of fulfillment, debating whether true happiness can be achieved through fulfilling desires.
- Existential philosophy often focuses on unfulfilled potential, with thinkers like Kierkegaard discussing how individuals confront their inherent limitations.
- The notion of striving towards an ideal can lead to both personal growth and a sense of perpetual dissatisfaction.
Origin of 'unfulfilled'
Main points about word origin
- The word is formed from 'fulfill', which comes from the Old English 'fullan' meaning to make full or complete.
- The prefix 'un-' is a common English way to indicate a lack or opposite of something.
- In many languages, words conveying a similar meaning often include prefixes that denote negation.
The word 'unfulfilled' originates from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the past participle of the verb 'fulfill', ultimately deriving from the Old English word 'fyllan' meaning 'to fill'. The concept of 'unfulfilled' has been present in language to describe unmet expectations or unrealized potentials throughout history.
See also: fulfilled, fulfilling, fulfillingly, fulfillment, unfulfillability, unfulfilling.