Unpopular: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when referring to something or someone that is not liked by many people. It is typically neutral and doesn't always imply a strong negative feeling.

• The new law is unpopular among the citizens.
• She is an unpopular teacher because of her strict rules.

More direct and personal than 'unpopular', it indicates that people have a general negative opinion about something or someone.

• The new policy is widely disliked by the employees.
• He is disliked by his classmates for his rude behavior.

This is less common and suggests a lack of preference or support, often in formal contexts. It might be used when someone or something is not receiving favor or approval.

• The unfavored candidate still managed to win the election.
• In the business world, unfavored methods are often overlooked.

Used for topics, actions, or people that provoke strong opinions and are often the subject of heated debates. It generally implies a situation where there are significant disagreements.

• The decision to cancel the event was highly controversial.
• His speech touched on several controversial topics.

This word indicates something or someone that is not desired at all. It has a stronger negative meaning and often implies that the presence of the person or thing is problematic.

• The stray dog was an unwanted visitor in the neighborhood.
• She felt like an unwanted guest at the party.

Used to describe someone or something that is not liked by many people.

• The new policy was highly unpopular among the staff
• He was an unpopular kid at school

Describes something that is not in line with current fashion trends, often related to clothing or style.

• Her dress was considered unfashionable by her peers
• Clunky shoes are generally seen as unfashionable

Often refers to someone or something that has lost approval or support, especially after once being popular.

• The brand has fallen out of favor with younger consumers
• The king's adviser was out of favor at court

Used in informal settings to describe something that is not seen as stylish or socially acceptable, often by younger people.

• Wearing socks with sandals is so uncool
• It's uncool to ditch your friends

Similar to 'uncool,' but with a stronger emphasis on being out of touch with modern trends or culture.

• His music taste is really unhip
• You don’t want to come off as unhip at a tech conference