Ungentle: meaning, definitions and examples

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ungentle

 

[ ʌnˈdʒɛntəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

behavior, treatment

Ungentle refers to a manner or behavior that is harsh, rude, or lacking in kindness. It describes actions or words that are not gentle and can be considered inconsiderate or offensive.

Synonyms

harsh, rough, rude, unrefined.

Examples of usage

  • His ungentle criticism hurt her feelings.
  • The teacher's ungentle remarks discouraged the students.
  • She received ungentle treatment from her coworkers.
  • His ungentle approach to the situation made things worse.

Translations

Translations of the word "ungentle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 não gentil

🇮🇳 असभ्य

🇩🇪 unhöflich

🇮🇩 tidak ramah

🇺🇦 негарно

🇵🇱 niegrzeczny

🇯🇵 無礼な

🇫🇷 pas gentil

🇪🇸 desagradable

🇹🇷 nazik olmayan

🇰🇷 불친절한

🇸🇦 غير لطيف

🇨🇿 nezdvořilý

🇸🇰 nezdvorilý

🇨🇳 不友好

🇸🇮 neprijazen

🇮🇸 ókur

🇰🇿 жаман

🇬🇪 არასასურველი

🇦🇿 nəcib olmayan

🇲🇽 descortés

Etymology

The word ungentle has its roots in Middle English, derived from the prefix 'un-', which means 'not', combined with 'gentle'. The term 'gentle' itself originates from the Latin word 'gentilis', which means 'of high birth', and evolved to describe behavior that is kind, soft, and mild. In contrast, the prefix 'un-' negates these qualities, thus forming 'ungentle' to signify a lack of gentleness or kindness. Over time, this word has been used to describe not just physical actions, but also attitudes and communication styles that are abrupt or unkind. Its usage has historically reflected societal values around politeness and decorum, often highlighting the importance of gentle behavior in civic life.