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Unofficially: meaning, definitions and examples

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unofficially

 

[ˌənəˈfɪʃəli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

informally

In a manner that is not formally or officially recognized or authorized.

Synonyms

informally, unapproved, unauthorized.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unofficially

Use this word when something is done without formal recognition or official approval, but not necessarily in a negative light.

  • She is unofficially leading the project since the manager is on leave.
  • The results are unofficially in, but the formal announcement will be made tomorrow.
informally

This term fits when something is done in a casual or relaxed manner, often without following strict protocols or formalities.

  • We discussed the proposal informally over lunch.
  • The team met informally to brainstorm ideas for the new project.
unauthorized

This word should be used when something is done without permission or authority and generally carries a negative connotation.

  • The security breach was due to unauthorized access to the system.
  • He made unauthorized changes to the database.
unapproved

This word is suitable when something has not received the necessary approval, and it often carries a neutral to slightly negative connotation.

  • She submitted an unapproved budget plan which will need revisions.
  • The medication use in this context is unapproved by regulatory authorities.

Examples of usage

  • She was unofficially appointed as the team leader.
  • The event was unofficially sponsored by a local business.
  • The decision was made unofficially, without proper approval.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word combines the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' with 'official,' which comes from the Latin 'officialis,' meaning 'of office or duty.'
  • It first appeared in the English language in the mid-19th century, becoming common as informal communication grew.
  • The use of 'unofficially' helps clarify contexts that are casual or personal rather than formal.

Pop Culture

  • In social media, content can spread 'unofficially' when users share news before any official announcements.
  • Many fan-created works are labeled 'unofficially,' like fan fiction or unofficial merchandise that exists outside corporate trademarks.
  • The phrase 'unofficial fan club’ captures communities built around shared interests without formal approval from the original creators.

Legal Context

  • Certain transactions or arrangements can occur unofficially to bypass bureaucratic procedures, often leading to legal gray areas.
  • In many countries, 'unofficial' documents are still used informally, like agreements or contracts that are not legally binding but hold social value.
  • Illegal operations often function unofficially, operating outside the laws and regulations designed to govern official activities.

Psychology

  • Social dynamics can shift significantly when interactions occur unofficially; people might feel freer and more relaxed.
  • Unofficial settings encourage more open discussions among peers, which can lead to stronger camaraderie and more honest feedback.
  • Research shows that unofficial relationships can enhance creativity, as individuals often express themselves without the constraints of formal structures.

Education

  • Unofficial educational activities, like peer tutoring or informal study groups, can sometimes enhance learning more than structured classes.
  • In many cultures, unofficial learning occurs through mentorship and community engagement rather than formal schooling.
  • The rise of online forums allows students to learn unofficially from each other, sharing knowledge and skills beyond the classroom.

Translations

Translations of the word "unofficially" in other languages:

🇵🇹 oficiosamente

🇮🇳 अनौपचारिक रूप से

🇩🇪 inoffiziell

🇮🇩 tidak resmi

🇺🇦 неофіційно

🇵🇱 nieoficjalnie

🇯🇵 非公式に

🇫🇷 officieusement

🇪🇸 extraoficialmente

🇹🇷 resmi olmayan

🇰🇷 비공식적으로

🇸🇦 بشكل غير رسمي

🇨🇿 neoficiálně

🇸🇰 neoficiálne

🇨🇳 非正式地

🇸🇮 neuradno

🇮🇸 óopinberlega

🇰🇿 ресми емес түрде

🇬🇪 არაოფიციალურად

🇦🇿 qeyri-rəsmi olaraq

🇲🇽 extraoficialmente

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,661, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.