Unnaturally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unnaturally

[ˌʌnˈnætʃərəli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a way that is not natural

In a manner that is not conforming to the usual course of nature; not occurring naturally. In a manner that is not typical or normal; in an artificial or forced way.

Synonyms

abnormally, artificially, unnormally.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unnaturally	Used to describe something that does not occur in nature or feels out of place in a natural setting. The colors of the sunset appeared unnaturally vibrant.
artificially	Refers to something made or produced by human beings rather than occurring naturally, often in the context of technology or manufacturing. The lake was artificially created for the resort.
abnormally	Often used in medical or scientific contexts to describe something that deviates from the normal or expected state. His heart rate was abnormally high during the check-up.
unnormally	Less commonly used, might be considered incorrect in standard English. Typically, 'abnormally' is preferred. It's unnormally cold for this time of year.

Examples of usage

The flowers in the garden were arranged unnaturally, clearly by human hands.
Her smile seemed unnaturally wide, almost as if it was forced.
The colors of the painting clashed unnaturally, creating an unsettling effect.
The actor's performance felt unnaturally stiff and rehearsed.
The music in the room sounded unnaturally loud, echoing off the walls.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

not in accordance with what is natural

Not in accordance with the usual course of nature; not natural. Not conforming to the normal or expected behavior.

Synonyms

abnormal, odd, peculiar, unnatural.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unnaturally	This word is used to describe something that does not occur in the way it normally would in nature or reality. Her smile seemed unnaturally forced. The light in the room was unnaturally bright.
abnormal	This is often used in scientific or medical contexts to describe something that deviates from the usual standards or norms. It carries a slightly negative connotation. The patient's test results were abnormal. Finding an abnormal growth in the body can be concerning.
unnatural	This word is used to describe something that is not natural or is against the way things normally are; it often has a negative connotation. Cloning animals is seen by some as unnatural. There was an unnatural stillness in the air.
peculiar	This term is used to describe something that is especially unusual or unique, often implying that it is interesting or noteworthy. She has a peculiar talent for making people laugh. The house had a very peculiar smell.
odd	This is a casual term used to describe something unusual, strange, or out of the ordinary. He has an odd sense of humor. There was an odd sound coming from the basement.

Examples of usage

The unnaturally fast growth of the plant puzzled the botanists.
Her unnaturally pale complexion raised concerns among her friends.
The unnaturally calm sea before the storm was an eerie sight.
The unnaturally high temperature for this time of year was a cause for alarm.
The unnaturally quiet forest was a sign that something was amiss.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

In biology, 'unnaturally' can describe genetic modifications that change the natural characteristics of organisms.
Chemicals in artificial additives are often described as producing unnaturally bright colors that don’t exist in natural foods.
Certain environmental changes, like pollution, create conditions that can lead to unnaturally high temperatures affecting ecosystems.

Psychology

Behavior considered unnaturally aggressive may indicate underlying psychological issues or stress.
People might act unnaturally in social situations due to anxiety, showing how emotions can alter natural responses.
Concepts of beauty sometimes lead individuals to pursue unnaturally altered appearances through surgery or cosmetic procedures.

Literature

Many authors use 'unnatural' themes to explore the supernatural, pushing characters into extraordinary situations outside reality.
In classic stories, characters’ unnaturally exceptional abilities often symbolize deeper themes of power and isolation.
Shakespeare’s works frequently examine unnaturally ambitious characters, exploring the consequences of striving for greatness through unnatural means.

Pop Culture

Films often depict robots or aliens as unnaturally behaving beings, challenging norms of what is human.
Reality TV can sometimes create unnaturally dramatic scenarios, leading viewers to question the authenticity of the situations.
Fashion trends may feature unnaturally styled hair or clothing, promoting unique, extreme aesthetics that diverge from convention.

Origin of 'unnaturally'

Main points about word origin

The word combines 'un-', meaning 'not', and 'natural', which comes from Latin 'naturalis', referring to nature.
In early uses, 'unnatural' referred to anything contrary to the expected order of nature, like strange behaviors.
This term has roots that go back to Middle English, showing how long people have been discussing what is 'natural.'

The word 'unnaturally' is formed by adding the prefix 'un-' to the word 'naturally'. 'Naturally' comes from the Middle English word 'naturelly', which is derived from the Old French 'naturellement'. The prefix 'un-' is used to indicate negation or reversal. The concept of something being 'unnatural' or 'unnaturally' has been used in various contexts to describe things that deviate from the expected or usual course of nature. Over time, the term has become widely accepted in the English language to convey the idea of something artificial, abnormal, or forced.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,354, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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20351 faltering
20352 guano
20353 origination
20354 unnaturally
20355 chipping
20356 riddled
20357 disloyalty
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