Unseemly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
unseemly
[สnหsiหmli ]
Definitions
behavior
Not in keeping with accepted standards of what is proper or right; inappropriate or indecent.
Synonyms
improper, inappropriate, indecent, unbecoming.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unseemly |
Used when behavior or appearance is not fitting the social norms or is not suitable for the situation.
|
| indecent |
Used when something is morally offensive or not conforming to accepted standards of behavior, typically in a sexual context.
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| improper |
Used when something does not meet accepted standards or is against rules and protocol.
|
| inappropriate |
Used when something is not suitable for the given context or situation, often causing discomfort or offense.
|
| unbecoming |
Used when behavior or appearance is not appropriate for someone's dignity or status, often related to clothing or conduct.
|
Examples of usage
- It would be unseemly for a teacher to date a student.
- His unseemly behavior at the party shocked everyone.
behavior
In a manner that is inappropriate or indecent.
Synonyms
improperly, inappropriately, indecently.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unseemly |
Use this word when describing behavior or actions that don't conform to accepted standards of good manners or propriety. Can be used in formal or semi-formal contexts.
|
| indecently |
Use this word to describe actions, dress, or speech that violate standards of decency and can be offensive. This term often has a negative connotation and is used in both formal and informal contexts.
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| improperly |
Use this word to describe actions or behaviors that are incorrect or not appropriate according to rules, standards, or norms. Can be used in both formal and casual contexts.
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| inappropriately |
Best used when describing actions, behaviors, or remarks that are not suitable for the situation. Commonly used in both professional and casual settings.
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Examples of usage
- She laughed unseemly loudly during the solemn ceremony.
- He spoke unseemly of his former employer.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Social Etiquette
- In social settings, actions deemed 'unseemly' can lead to awkward situations or misunderstandings.
- 'Unseemly' behaviors vary greatly across cultures, highlighting the importance of context in societal norms.
- What is considered unseemly in one culture might be perfectly acceptable in another, demonstrating fluidity in etiquette.
Literature
- The word frequently appears in classic literature, often used to describe characters acting outside societal expectations.
- Famous authors like Jane Austen employed 'unseemly' to critique social behaviors and class expectations of their time.
- Plays and novels often portray 'unseemly' characters to evoke humor or moral lessons about respectability.
Psychology
- Engaging in unseemly behavior can lead to feelings of guilt or shame, affecting personal relationships.
- Social psychologists study how perceptions of unseemliness influence group dynamics and individual behavior.
- People often conform to 'seemly' standards to gain social acceptance and avoid negative judgment.
Pop Culture
- Reality TV has popularized 'unseemly' behavior, often leading to dramatic confrontations among cast members.
- Memes often highlight moments when public figures act unseemly, creating viral content that critiques their behavior.
- Characters in sitcoms often engage in unseemly antics for comedic effect, reflecting societal norms humorously.
Origin of 'unseemly'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'unseemly' comes from Old English, with 'seemly' meaning 'fitting' or 'suitable'.
- The prefix 'un-' means 'not', so together they indicate something that isnโt suitable.
- The term has been used since the late 14th century, reflecting societal norms about appropriate behavior.
The word 'unseemly' comes from the Old English 'unsemlic', meaning 'not seemly'. It has been used in English since the 13th century to describe behavior or actions that are not appropriate or proper in a given context.