Unmatched Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unmatched

[ˌʌnˈmætʃt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in relationships

Not having a partner or not being equal in a relationship.

Synonyms

unbalanced, unequal, unpaired.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unmatched

This word duplicates the previous one and thus is already covered earlier.

  • Already covered earlier
unpaired

This word works best when referring to something that should have a partner or a match but does not. It is commonly used in contexts involving objects or elements that typically come in pairs.

  • He found an unpaired sock in his laundry
  • The chromosomes were unpaired, which caused the genetic disorder
unequal

This word is appropriate for situations where there is a disparity or lack of equality between two or more elements. It is often used in discussions about fairness, rights, or opportunities.

  • The pay was unequal between men and women at the company
  • The distribution of resources was unequal, leaving many without basic necessities
unbalanced

This word is best used when something lacks balance or stability, which could be physical or metaphorical. It often indicates something is not in the correct proportions.

  • The scale was unbalanced, making it difficult to weigh the items accurately
  • His unbalanced emotional state worried his friends

Examples of usage

  • She felt lonely and unmatched after the breakup.
  • He struggled with feeling unmatched in his marriage.
Context #2 | Verb

in competition

To compete against someone or something that is much stronger or better.

Synonyms

outmatched, overpowered, overwhelmed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unmatched

This is a duplicate and has the same meaning as the first occurrence.

  • Her skill in painting is unmatched
  • The beauty of the landscape was unmatched
outmatched

Describes a situation where someone or something is clearly superior to another, usually in competition or comparison.

  • The rookie was outmatched by the veteran player
  • Our team was completely outmatched in the final game
overwhelmed

Describes a situation where someone feels caught off guard or submerged by circumstances, often emotional or workload-related.

  • She felt overwhelmed by the amount of work she had to do
  • He was overwhelmed with joy to see his old friend
overpowered

Used when strength or force completely dominates someone or something else, often indicating a clear physical or metaphorical superiority.

  • The smaller army was overpowered by the larger one
  • His emotions overpowered him, and he started to cry

Examples of usage

  • The underdog team was unmatched in the final game.
  • She knew she was unmatched in skill but gave her best effort anyway.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In sports, athletes often strive to achieve unmatched records, standing as icons in their fields.
  • The phrase 'unmatched talent' is frequently used in music and art to highlight extraordinary individuals.
  • Movies like 'Unmatched' showcase fierce competitions where the protagonists face unique challenges.

Science

  • In biology, unmatched individuals in a species can signify strong genetic traits, leading to biodiversity.
  • In mathematics, an unmatched solution occurs when certain parameters cannot be equated to find a single answer.
  • Quantum physics often discusses unmatched particle properties, leading to phenomena like entanglement.

Psychology

  • Feeling unmatched can lead to self-esteem issues, as individuals might compare themselves unfavorably with others.
  • Positive psychology studies suggest that acknowledging one's unmatched qualities can foster self-acceptance.
  • Experiencing unmatched situations can trigger individual growth, pushing people out of comfort zones.

Literature

  • Unmatched characters in novels often symbolize themes of individuality or isolation, showcasing their unique journeys.
  • Poets frequently use the concept of unmatched beauty to convey deep emotions, creating vivid imagery for readers.
  • Classic literature often presents protagonists as unmatched against their societal norms, driving conflict and development.

Origin of 'unmatched'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'unmatched' comes from adding 'un-' to 'matched', meaning 'not matched'.
  • The root 'match' can be traced back to Old French 'mache', which means 'to make equal' or 'to arrange'.
  • Using 'unmatched' in the context of being superior became popular in the early 19th century.

The word 'unmatched' originated from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' or 'opposite of', and 'match' meaning 'to be equal or similar'. The term has been used since the late 16th century to describe things or people that do not have a partner or are not equal in some way.


See also: match, matched, matching, matchless, matchstick, mismatched, outmatch, outmatchable, outmatched.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,208, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.