Unrewarding: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The prefix 'un-' means not, so 'unrewarding' means not rewarding.
• The word 'reward' stems from Old French 'rewarder,' which means to give, recompense, or compensate.
• 'Rewarding' originally came from the Latin word 'rewardare', emphasizing the act of giving something back.

Psychology

• People often feel unmotivated when faced with unrewarding tasks, leading to increased procrastination and disengagement.
• Repeated experiences of unrewarding activities can result in learned helplessness, where individuals feel they cannot improve their situation.
• Perceived lack of reward can trigger stress and anxiety, impacting mental health and overall well-being.

Workplace Culture

• Many employees cite unfulfilling roles as a primary reason for leaving jobs, emphasizing the need for meaningful work.
• Organizations that fail to reward employees adequately can experience lower morale and higher turnover rates.
• Practicing recognition and reward can significantly enhance job satisfaction and motivation among team members.

Literature

• In literature, characters often face unrewarding journeys that reflect deeper themes of existentialism and the futility of life.
• Classic novels frequently explore the tension between effort and reward, showcasing protagonists in unfulfilling roles.
• The theme of unrewarding pursuits can often lead to character development, showcasing resilience or the quest for meaning.

Pop Culture

• Reality TV shows often highlight contestants' unrewarding experiences, showcasing the emotional toll of competition.
• Many popular songs touch on themes of unreciprocated love, paralleling the concept of unrewarding attachments.
• Social media discussions frequently highlight the contrast between the pursuit of status and the lack of real-life rewards.

This word's position of #32,299 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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