Unsavorily: meaning, definitions and examples

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unsavorily

 

[ʌnˈseɪvərəli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

behavior

In a way that lacks good taste or is morally offensive.

Synonyms

distastefully, offensively, repulsively.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unsavorily

Used when describing something that is unpleasant in taste or character, often implying moral or ethical concerns.

  • The dish was prepared unsavorily, making it inedible
  • The magazine was known for its unsavorily sensationalist stories
distastefully

Describes something that causes a feeling of dislike or disgust, often related to aesthetics or manners.

  • She looked distastefully at the messy room
  • His comment about the recent tragedy was distastefully inappropriate
offensively

Used when something causes someone to feel hurt, angry, or upset, often in a way that violates social norms or decency. This term carries a negative connotation.

  • The comedian's joke was offensively directed at a specific group
  • He spoke offensively and made everyone uncomfortable
repulsively

Describes something that creates a strong feeling of disgust or repulsion, often on a physical or visceral level. This word also carries a negative implication.

  • The smell from the dumpster was repulsively strong
  • His habits were so repulsively dirty that no one wanted to share a room with him

Examples of usage

  • He spoke unsavorily about his colleagues behind their backs.
  • She behaved unsavorily at the party, causing discomfort to the other guests.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'savor', which relates to flavor and enjoyment.
  • Traditionally, the word has been used in English since the late 18th century, showing a growing interest in describing bad tastes.
  • The concept of savoring something encompasses both flavor and experience, so 'unsavorily' suggests a lack of pleasure.

Culinary Arts

  • Chefs consider both presentation and taste; food that looks unsavorily can affect the dining experience even if it tastes okay.
  • The idea of unsavory dishes has given rise to terms for foods that may be technically fine, but are culturally considered undesirable.
  • Food critics often use 'unsavorily' to describe textures or flavors that are off-putting, influencing restaurant reviews.

Literature

  • Characters in novels are sometimes described as unsavorily to indicate immoral actions or vile behavior.
  • Poets may use the term metaphorically to enhance themes of decay or unpleasantness in their imagery.
  • Classic works often reference unsavorily things to critique societal issues, showcasing the word’s deeper significance.

Psychology

  • People have a psychological aversion to unsavory situations, often avoiding experiences that evoke negative feelings.
  • Smells and tastes can trigger strong memories; something unsavorily can lead to a quick change in mood or appetite.
  • Social psychology indicates that negative qualities (like being unsavorily) can lead to stigmas affecting personal and social relationships.

Pop Culture

  • Unsavory characters are commonly found in television shows and movies, often serving as antagonists or comic relief.
  • The term is frequently used in culinary-themed media to describe failed dishes or unpopular food trends.
  • Reality shows sometimes feature unsavorily moments that reveal contestants' true natures, enhancing drama and viewer engagement.

Translations

Translations of the word "unsavorily" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desagradavelmente

🇮🇳 अप्रिय ढंग से

🇩🇪 unangenehm

🇮🇩 dengan tidak menyenangkan

🇺🇦 неприємно

🇵🇱 nieprzyjemnie

🇯🇵 不快に

🇫🇷 désagréablement

🇪🇸 desagradablemente

🇹🇷 hoş olmayan bir şekilde

🇰🇷 불쾌하게

🇸🇦 بشكل غير مستساغ

🇨🇿 nepříjemně

🇸🇰 nepríjemne

🇨🇳 令人不快地

🇸🇮 neprijetno

🇮🇸 óþægilega

🇰🇿 жағымсыз түрде

🇬🇪 არასასიამოვნოდ

🇦🇿 xoşagəlməz şəkildə

🇲🇽 desagradablemente