Unheard Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unheard
[ʌnˈhɜːd ]
Definition
not known or noticed
Not heard or listened to; not perceived by the ear.
Synonyms
ignored, unattended, unnoticed, unrecognized.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unheard |
This word is typically used when someone does not hear a sound or when a voice goes unnoticed. It suggests that an attempt to communicate has been made but was not received.
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| unnoticed |
This word applies when something is not observed or detected by others. It suggests that the presence or action of someone or something was missed inadvertently.
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| unrecognized |
This term is often used when someone or something is not acknowledged or identified for their true nature, identity, or accomplishments. It can sometimes imply a lack of appreciation or respect.
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| ignored |
This term is used when someone intentionally pays no attention to a person, situation, or statement. It often carries a negative connotation as it implies a deliberate act of neglect.
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| unattended |
Use this word when describing something or someone that is left alone without supervision or care. It can be used in both neutral and negative contexts depending on the situation.
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Examples of usage
- Her cries for help went unheard.
- Their concerns remained unheard by the authorities.
- Their music remains largely unheard by the public.
- Their story went unheard for years.
- Their talents went unheard and unappreciated.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Feeling unheard can lead to frustration and anxiety, often impacting mental health.
- People who feel their voices are ignored may develop a sense of alienation from their communities.
- Active listening in conversations is crucial; being heard can enhance emotional well-being.
Literature
- Many authors use unheard voices to highlight societal issues; characters often struggle to be acknowledged.
- In poetry, the theme of being unheard can evoke deep emotions and resonate with the reader's experiences.
- In novels, plotlines often explore the journey of characters fighting to have their unheard stories shared and recognized.
Social Movements
- Activism often focuses on amplifying unheard voices, especially those from marginalized groups.
- Many movements, such as women's rights and civil rights, highlight how systemic issues lead to certain groups feeling unheard.
- Social media plays a crucial role in bringing unheard voices to a broader audience, helping raise awareness of various causes.
Communication
- Clear communication is key to ensuring ideas and feelings are heard; misunderstandings can lead to unheard messages.
- Nonverbal cues, like body language, significantly impact whether someone feels heard or not in a conversation.
- Techniques like 'I statements' in conflict resolution help ensure that all parties feel acknowledged and heard.
Origin of 'unheard'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'unheard' comes from the combination of 'un-', meaning not, and 'heard', the past form of hear.
- 'Hear' has roots in Old English 'hyran', which means to perceive sound or listen.
- The prefix 'un-' is commonly used in the English language to negate or reverse the meaning of the word it's attached to.
The word 'unheard' originated from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'heard'. It first appeared in Middle English around the 14th century. Over time, the term evolved to its current usage to describe something that has not been heard or noticed.