Unmoved: meaning, definitions and examples

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unmoved

 

[ʌnˈmuːvd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

emotionless

Not feeling or showing any emotion; calm and composed.

Synonyms

apathetic, impassive, stoic, unemotional.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unmoved

Best used when describing someone who remains unaffected or indifferent to emotions, appeals, or influences.

  • She remained unmoved by his heartfelt apology
  • Despite the touching story, he was unmoved
stoic

Describes someone who can endure pain or hardship without showing their emotions or complaining, often admired for this quality.

  • Despite the freezing cold, he stood stoic at the bus stop
  • She maintained a stoic demeanor throughout the trial
impassive

Used when referring to someone who shows no visible emotions or reactions, often implying a deliberate restraint.

  • The judge listened to the arguments with an impassive expression
  • He remained impassive even after hearing the shocking news
unemotional

Refers to an absence of strong emotions or emotional reactions, especially when expected or typical.

  • His unemotional response to the surprise party was unexpected
  • She tried to stay unemotional during the tough conversation
apathetic

This word describes someone showing a lack of interest or concern, especially when they should be interested or concerned.

  • His apathetic attitude toward the team's loss frustrated the coach
  • She was apathetic about politics and rarely voted

Examples of usage

  • She remained unmoved by his passionate speech.
  • Despite the tragic news, his expression remained unmoved.
Context #2 | Adjective

unchanged

Not changed or affected by something; remaining the same.

Synonyms

steady, unaffected, unchanged, unwavering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unmoved

Best used when describing a person who is not emotionally affected by a situation or event, often in a way that shows a lack of feeling or sympathy. This can have a negative connotation.

  • Despite the heartfelt pleas, she remained unmoved.
  • He listened to the tragic news with an unmoved expression.
unchanged

Used to state that something has remained the same over time. Generally neutral in tone.

  • The recipe has remained unchanged for generations.
  • His stance on the issue is unchanged.
steady

Appropriate when talking about someone or something stable, reliable, or consistent over time. Often used in positive contexts.

  • Her steady hand ensured the success of the surgery.
  • The team's performance has been steady throughout the season.
unaffected

Suitable for describing someone or something not influenced or changed by an external factor. This word typically carries a neutral to positive tone.

  • The building remained unaffected by the earthquake.
  • She seemed unaffected by the criticism.
unwavering

Ideal for expressing firm and resolute support, belief, or determination. It has a positive connotation, indicating strength and consistency.

  • She has been unwavering in her support for the cause.
  • His unwavering dedication earned him great respect.

Examples of usage

  • The rock stood unmoved by the strong winds.
  • His opinion on the matter remained unmoved despite the new evidence.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'unmoved' comes from the prefix 'un-', meaning 'not', combined with 'moved', which is derived from the Latin 'movere', meaning 'to move'.
  • The use of 'unmoved' dates back to the 15th century, one of the earliest examples appearing in English literature during that time.
  • In modern usage, 'unmoved' often conveys emotional resilience or steadfastness in the face of challenges.

Psychology

  • Individuals described as unmoved may exhibit emotional stability, which can be a sign of strong coping mechanisms.
  • Research shows that being unmoved can be a protective factor against anxiety, as it allows for a more analytical response to stressors.
  • In psychotherapy, learning to become unmoved by certain stimuli can be a technique to foster emotional regulation.

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's works, characters deemed unmoved often serve as moral compasses, showing stoicism in tumultuous settings.
  • The concept of being unmoved is frequently highlighted in poetry, where it might symbolize strength in love or enduring tribulations.
  • Famous literary figures, such as Ebenezer Scrooge from 'A Christmas Carol', initially exhibit an unmoved demeanor before personal transformation occurs.

Pop Culture

  • In films, characters who remain unmoved often create dramatic tension, as they defy climax and narrative expectations.
  • Iconic figures in history, like Joan of Arc, showcased an unmoved spirit, standing firm against societal pressures and challenges.
  • Lyrics in popular music sometimes narrate stories of love or heartache where one party remains unmoved, adding depth to the narrative.

Translations

Translations of the word "unmoved" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inabalável

🇮🇳 अचल

🇩🇪 unbewegt

🇮🇩 tak tergerak

🇺🇦 непорушний

🇵🇱 niewzruszony

🇯🇵 動かない (ugokanai)

🇫🇷 imperturbable

🇪🇸 inmóvil

🇹🇷 kımıldamayan

🇰🇷 움직이지 않는

🇸🇦 غير متحرك

🇨🇿 nepohnutý

🇸🇰 nepohnutý

🇨🇳 不动 (bù dòng)

🇸🇮 nepremakljiv

🇮🇸 óhreyfður

🇰🇿 қозғалмаған

🇬🇪 უვნებელი

🇦🇿 dəyişməz

🇲🇽 inmóvil

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,989, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.