Unrequited: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used in romantic contexts to describe love or affection that is not returned or reciprocated by the other person.

• Her unrequited love for him brought her much sorrow.
• He knew his feelings were unrequited, yet he couldn't help but care for her.

Can be used in both romantic and non-romantic contexts to refer to feelings, actions, or kindness that are not returned in kind.

• His kindness remained unreciprocated by his colleagues.
• She realized her care for him was unreciprocated.

Describes situations where feelings, favors, or objects are not returned. Often used in more general contexts beyond romantic relationships.

• Her efforts went unreturned, much to her dismay.
• The borrowed book remained unreturned for months.

Typically used to describe efforts, hard work, or actions that do not receive a reward or recognition.

• His years of dedication to the company went unrewarded.
• Despite her hard work, her talent remained unrewarded.

This word is often used to describe feelings of love or affection that are not returned by the other person. It conveys a sense of longing and sadness.

• She suffered from unrequited love for years, always hoping he would notice her.
• His unrequited affection left him feeling empty and lonely.

Unreciprocated is used to describe any action, gesture, or feeling that is not returned by someone. It can be used in various contexts, not just related to love.

• Her efforts to befriend her new neighbor were unreciprocated.
• He felt sad when his kindness was unreciprocated by his colleagues.

Unreturned is used to describe anything that is given or lent and not given back. It can also describe feelings, but it is less emotional than 'unrequited'.

• His unreturned library books led to several fines.
• Her unreturned messages made him worry that she was avoiding him.

Unrewarded refers to effort or work that goes unnoticed or unappreciated. It is often used in professional or academic settings.

• Many years of unrecognized hard work left him feeling unappreciated and unrewarded.
• Her volunteer efforts went largely unrewarded, but she continued to help out of passion and kindness.