Unpleasantly: meaning, definitions and examples

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unpleasantly

 

[ʌnˈplɛz.ənt.li ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in a negative manner

In a manner causing discomfort, unhappiness, or displeasure.

Synonyms

disagreeably, displeasingly, uncomfortably.

Examples of usage

  • She looked at him unpleasantly, her expression filled with disdain.
  • The food tasted unpleasantly bitter.
  • He spoke to her unpleasantly, his tone sharp and critical.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word is formed by adding the prefix 'un-' (meaning 'not') to 'pleasant', which originates from the Latin 'placere', meaning 'to please'.
  • It first appeared in the English language in the late 16th century, indicating experiences that are disagreeable.

Psychology

  • Experiencing things 'unpleasantly' can trigger stress responses in the body, leading to feelings of anxiety or discomfort.
  • Negative experiences are often processed more intensely by the brain than positive ones, influencing how we remember events.

Literature

  • In literature, characters may describe situations 'unpleasantly' to create tension or highlight conflict within the narrative.
  • Classic novels often depict the protagonist facing 'unpleasantly' chaotic or challenging circumstances, showcasing their growth.

Social Context

  • In social situations, people often use the term when discussing confrontations or disagreements, emphasizing discomfort in interactions.
  • Cultural norms can dictate what is considered 'unpleasantly' appropriate or inappropriate behavior in various communities.

Pop Culture

  • 'Unpleasantly' is often used in movies and TV shows to describe awkward or cringe-worthy moments that make viewers feel uncomfortable.
  • Character interactions described as 'unpleasantly' humorous suggest a blend of discomfort and comedy, often seen in sitcoms.

Translations

Translations of the word "unpleasantly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desagradavelmente

🇮🇳 अप्रिय ढंग से

🇩🇪 unangenehm

🇮🇩 dengan tidak menyenangkan

🇺🇦 неприємно

🇵🇱 nieprzyjemnie

🇯🇵 不愉快に (ふゆかいに)

🇫🇷 désagréablement

🇪🇸 desagradablemente

🇹🇷 hoşnutsuzca

🇰🇷 불쾌하게 (bulkwaehage)

🇸🇦 بشكل غير سار

🇨🇿 nepříjemně

🇸🇰 nepríjemne

🇨🇳 令人不快地 (lìng rén bù kuài de)

🇸🇮 neprijetno

🇮🇸 óþægilega

🇰🇿 жағымсыздықпен

🇬🇪 არასასიამოვნოდ

🇦🇿 xoşagəlməz şəkildə

🇲🇽 desagradablemente

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,139, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.