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Unpretentiously Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unpretentiously

[หŒสŒnprษชหˆtenสƒษ™sli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in a simple or modest manner

Unpretentiously means in a simple or modest manner, without trying to impress others or appear better than one really is. It is the act of being genuine, humble, and down-to-earth.

Synonyms

humbly, modestly, simply.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unpretentiously

Used when describing someone or something that is genuine and does not seek to impress others with showiness. Often implies authenticity and straightforwardness.

  • She spoke unpretentiously about her achievements, focusing on the joy of the work rather than the accolades.
  • The restaurant decorated unpretentiously, with simple furnishings that gave it a homey feel.
modestly

Refers to displaying a moderate estimation of one's abilities or worth. Often used in contexts related to behavior, dress, or claims.

  • She modestly downplayed her role in the successful project.
  • The house is modestly decorated, with no extravagant features.
simply

Used when describing something that is basic, plain, and without unnecessary complexity. Can refer to both objects and actions.

  • They live simply, without many modern conveniences.
  • She explained the concept simply, so even those new to the topic could understand.
humbly

Describes someone who shows or has a modest or low view of their own importance. Often used when someone acknowledges their limitations or expresses gratitude.

  • He humbly accepted the award, thanking everyone who supported him.
  • They live humbly, donating much of their income to charity.

Examples of usage

  • She unpretentiously shared her homemade cookies with the neighbors.
  • He dressed unpretentiously in jeans and a t-shirt for the family gathering.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Insights

  • In many cultures, being unpretentious is often seen as a virtue, reflecting humility and genuineness.
  • Movements like minimalism promote unpretentiousness by encouraging people to live with less and appreciate what they truly need.
  • Celebrities known for their unpretentious nature, like Keanu Reeves, often gain public admiration for their down-to-earth behavior.

Psychology

  • Behaving unpretentiously can lead to greater personal satisfaction and stronger relationships because it fosters authenticity.
  • People often find others who are unpretentious more relatable and trustworthy, enhancing social bonds.
  • Studies suggest that being unpretentious can reduce stress by freeing individuals from the pressure to impress others.

Literature

  • Authors like Mark Twain often celebrated unpretentious characters who reflect the virtues of honesty and simplicity in their stories.
  • The idea of unpretentiousness is often linked to the 'everyman' character, which resonates with readers seeking real-life connections.
  • Poetry that embraces unpretentious themes often focuses on everyday experiences, making profound insights feel accessible.

Art and Design

  • Despite the rise of elaborate styles, many modern artists embrace unpretentious design to convey authenticity in their work.
  • The concept of 'Wabi-Sabi' in Japanese art emphasizes beauty in simplicity and imperfection, aligning closely with unpretentious ideals.
  • Architectural designs that prioritize function over flashiness are often praised for their unpretentiousness, creating spaces that feel welcoming.

Origin of 'unpretentiously'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Unpretentiously' comes from 'pretentious', which means trying to sound important or grand when it's not true.
  • The prefix 'un-' means 'not', turning it into the opposite of showy or self-important.
  • The word has been used in English since the late 19th century, growing in popularity as society values authenticity.

The word 'unpretentiously' is derived from the adjective 'unpretentious,' which dates back to the mid-19th century. It combines the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' with 'pretentious,' which comes from the Latin word 'praetendere' meaning 'to stretch forth, claim.' The concept of being unpretentious has long been valued in various cultures as a sign of sincerity and humility.

See also: pretentiously, pretentiousness, unpretentious, unpretentiousness.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,858, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.