Unpropitious: meaning, definitions and examples
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unpropitious
[ʌnˈprɒpɪʃəs ]
Definition
unfavorable circumstances
Unpropitious means not likely to result in success or favorable outcomes. It describes situations or conditions that are not conducive to a positive outcome.
Synonyms
unfavorable, unfortunate, unpromising.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unpropitious |
Same as the first entry since it is repeated.
|
| unfavorable |
Refers to conditions or opinions that are not supportive or positive. Can be used in both formal and informal settings.
|
| unpromising |
Indicates that a situation or prospect does not show signs of success or improvement; often used in a more personal or business context.
|
| unfortunate |
Describes a situation that is unlucky or regrettable. Often used to express sympathy or disappointment.
|
Examples of usage
- The unpropitious weather forecast forced us to cancel our outdoor event.
- His unpropitious financial situation made it difficult for him to pursue his dreams.
- The project faced unpropitious challenges from the very beginning.
- The unpropitious timing of the announcement led to a lack of interest from the audience.
- Despite the unpropitious circumstances, she remained determined to succeed.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'propitius', meaning favorable, combined with the prefix 'un-' indicating negation.
- First known use in English traces back to the 17th century as a way to describe bad luck or unfavorable circumstances.
- The prefix 'un-' is one of the most common in English, often transforming a word to its opposite.
Literature
- In literature, unpropitious circumstances are often used to create conflict within stories, driving characters to overcome obstacles.
- Shakespeare's works often explore unpropitious events that lead to tragedy or misunderstanding, exposing character flaws.
- Many classic novels depict protagonists facing unpropitious situations that ultimately lead to growth and resilience.
Psychology
- Cognitive biases can lead individuals to perceive situations as unpropitious when they may not be, often fueled by negativity.
- Research shows that a mindset focused on unpropitious outcomes can hinder motivation and lead to stress.
- Positive psychology encourages reframing unpropitious thoughts to promote resilience and optimism.
History
- Historical events are often deemed unpropitious when they lead to failure or hardship, such as during economic downturns.
- Many leaders in history faced unpropitious conditions yet turned them into opportunities for reform and change.
- The phrase has often been used in political contexts to describe unfavorable conditions leading to poor governance.
Pop Culture
- Films frequently depict heroes encountering unpropitious situations, emphasizing the importance of perseverance.
- Songs often reference unpropitious times to evoke themes of sadness or disappointment, resonating with listeners.
- In video games, unpropitious scenarios create challenges that players must overcome for success and progression.
Translations
Translations of the word "unpropitious" in other languages:
🇵🇹 desfavorável
🇮🇳 अशुभ
🇩🇪 ungünstig
🇮🇩 tidak menguntungkan
🇺🇦 несприятливий
🇵🇱 niekorzystny
🇯🇵 不吉な (fukitsuna)
🇫🇷 défavorable
🇪🇸 desfavorable
🇹🇷 elverişsiz
🇰🇷 불길한 (bulgilhan)
🇸🇦 غير موات
🇨🇿 nepříznivý
🇸🇰 nepriaznivý
🇨🇳 不利的 (bù lì de)
🇸🇮 neugoden
🇮🇸 óhagstæður
🇰🇿 қолайсыз
🇬🇪 არახელსაყრელი
🇦🇿 əlverişsiz
🇲🇽 desfavorable