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Unkindly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ˜ก
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unkindly

[สŒnหˆkaษชndli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

used to describe an action or behavior

In a manner that is not kind or friendly; in an unkind manner.

Synonyms

cruelly, harshly, unkind.

Examples of usage

  • She spoke unkindly to her coworkers.
  • He was treated unkindly by his classmates.
  • The customer was unkindly dismissive towards the waiter.
Context #2 | Adverb

used to describe a situation or circumstance

In a way that shows a lack of kindness or compassion.

Synonyms

brutally, coldly, indifferently.

Examples of usage

  • The news was delivered unkindly.
  • She received the rejection unkindly.
  • He reacted unkindly to the criticism.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research suggests that unkind behavior can stem from stress or insecurity in individuals.
  • Empathy training can significantly reduce unkind actions, indicating that understanding others' feelings can promote kindness.

Literature

  • Many classic stories involve unkind characters, highlighting the contrast with heroes who demonstrate kindness and compassion.
  • Shakespeare often portrayed characters behaving unkindly to show moral lessons in his plays, emphasizing the importance of compassion.

Pop Culture

  • Films often depict villains acting unkindly to create tension and conflict, making heroes' kind actions stand out.
  • Social media reflects unkind behaviors, such as cyberbullying, which has become a significant issue among younger generations.

Social Dynamics

  • Acts of unkindness can have a ripple effect, as witnessing unkind behavior can influence bystanders to act similarly.
  • Studies have shown that kindness can counteract unkindness, promoting a more positive community environment.

Origin of 'unkindly'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'unkindly' is formed by adding the suffix '-ly' to 'unkind', which traces back to the Old English 'uncynd' meaning 'not kind'.
  • The use of '-ly' to form adverbs became more common in Middle English, showing how language evolves over time.

The word 'unkindly' is derived from the Middle English word 'unkindliche', which originated from the Old English word 'uncyndelice'. The prefix 'un-' signifies negation or absence, while 'kindly' comes from the Old English 'cynd', meaning nature or kind. Over time, 'unkindly' has evolved to its current usage in Modern English to describe actions or behaviors lacking in kindness or compassion.

See also: kind, kinden, kindergarten, kindle, kindling, kindly, kindness, kindred, kinds, unkind, unkindness.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,069, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.