Ungratefulness: meaning, definitions and examples
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ungratefulness
[ʌnˈɡreɪt.fəl.nəs ]
Definition
Context #1 | Noun
lack of gratitude
Ungratefulness refers to the quality of being ungrateful, showing a lack of appreciation or thanks for kindness or help received. It is often perceived as a negative trait, as it suggests an inability to recognize and acknowledge the generosity or support of others.
Synonyms
discontent, ingratitude, thanklessness, unappreciativeness.
Examples of usage
- Her ungratefulness shocked everyone at the party.
- He expressed his ungratefulness despite her efforts to help.
- Ungratefulness can lead to damaged relationships.
- The student's ungratefulness after receiving a scholarship was disappointing.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'ungrateful' comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'grateful,' which stems from 'grate,' meaning to give thanks.
- The earliest use of related terms in English dates back to the early 15th century, reflecting the growing complexity of social relationships and expectations of gratitude.
Psychology
- Researchers suggest that ungratefulness can be linked to entitlement, where individuals feel they deserve everything without acknowledging others.
- Gratitude is known to enhance well-being; thus, its absence can lead to negative emotions like bitterness or dissatisfaction.
Literature
- Classic works often depict ungrateful characters as foils to grateful protagonists, showcasing the moral lessons learned through mutual appreciation.
- Shakespeare’s plays often reveal themes of gratitude and ungratefulness, illustrating how relationships can fracture when appreciation is lacking.
Culture
- Many cultures have proverbs emphasizing the importance of gratitude, showing that ungratefulness is universally viewed as a negative trait.
- In various religious texts, gratitude is highlighted as a virtue, often contrasting with ungratefulness as a moral failing.
Social Dynamics
- Ungratefulness can strain personal relationships, as being unappreciative is often perceived as selfishness.
- In collaborative settings, a lack of appreciation can demotivate teams and hinder productivity.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #41,289, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.