Unnatural: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that does not seem normal or is against nature. Often has a negative connotation.

• The bright purple color of the drink seemed unnatural.
• Her behavior towards the animals felt completely unnatural.

Refers to something made by humans rather than occurring naturally, often implying it lacks the quality of the natural version.

• The artificial flowers were pretty but didn’t have the same charm as real ones.
• He preferred real wood furniture over artificial materials.

Indicates behavior or style that is pretentious or designed to impress others. It has a negative connotation.

• His laughter was affected and didn’t seem genuine.
• She spoke with an affected British accent to sound more sophisticated.

Describes something deliberately created rather than arising naturally or spontaneously. Often used to express that something seems forced or overly planned.

• The plot of the film felt contrived and predictable.
• His surprise party seemed contrived, as if everyone knew about it beforehand.

Used to describe something that goes against what is normal in nature. It can have a negative connotation.

• The bright green color of the river seemed unnatural
• His smile felt forced and unnatural

Refers to objects or things that are made by humans rather than occurring naturally. Used in a neutral or factual context.

• The lake is man-made, not a natural formation
• Man-made satellites orbit the Earth

Describes materials or substances created through chemical processes, rather than found naturally. Often used in science or industry.

• Synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester are very popular
• This medicine is a synthetic version of a natural compound

Often used when something is made up or false. It can refer to both physical objects and abstract concepts, usually with a negative connotation.

• The story she told the police was completely fabricated
• The criminal provided fabricated evidence to mislead the investigation

Use 'unnatural' to describe something that does not follow the normal or expected way, often giving a sense of discomfort or wrongness.

• Her smile looked unnatural, as if she was hiding her true feelings.
• The color of the sky in the painting seemed very unnatural.

Use 'unnaturally' to describe actions, behaviors, or phenomena that deviate from what is considered normal or natural, often in a way that seems forced or strange.

• His laughter sounded unnaturally loud in the quiet room.
• She unnaturally forced herself to stay calm despite the chaos around her.

Apply 'artificially' when referring to something made or produced by human beings rather than occurring naturally, often implying a lack of authenticity.

• The lake was artificially created for recreational purposes.
• The flowers in the vase look beautiful, but they are unfortunately artificially arranged.

Use 'awkwardly' to describe actions or movements lacking grace, ease, or coordination, or social situations that feel uncomfortable.

• He stood awkwardly in the corner, unsure of how to join the conversation.
• She awkwardly tripped over the rug in front of everyone.