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Unsentimental: meaning, definitions and examples

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unsentimental

 

[ˌʌnsɛntɪˈmɛnt(ə)l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

lack of emotion

Not influenced by or showing sentiment; having or showing no feelings of tenderness, sadness, or nostalgia.

Synonyms

impersonal, stoic, unemotional.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unsentimental

Best used when describing someone or something that does not show emotions, especially in a situation where emotions are typically expected. This term has a straightforward, almost clinical nuance.

  • His unsentimental attitude toward the breakup surprised his friends.
  • The report was full of unsentimental analysis of the financial situation.
unemotional

Used to describe someone or something that does not display or involve emotions, often implying a lack of reaction in situations that usually elicit emotional responses.

  • The judge remained unemotional as he delivered the verdict.
  • His voice was flat and unemotional during the entire conversation.
stoic

Ideal for describing someone who endures pain or hardship without showing their feelings or complaining. This word conveys a sense of strength and resilience.

  • Despite the surgery, he remained stoic throughout his recovery.
  • She faced the criticism with a stoic expression, never letting it affect her.
impersonal

Suitable when referring to a manner or situation that lacks personal feelings, involvement, or warmth, often in a context where a personal touch might be more appropriate. This can sometimes carry a negative connotation.

  • The email from the company felt very impersonal, as if sent by a machine.
  • Her tone during the meeting was so impersonal that it made everyone uncomfortable.

Examples of usage

  • He was known for his unsentimental approach to decision-making.
  • She gave an unsentimental account of her childhood in her memoir.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word combines 'un-' meaning 'not' with 'sentimental,' which comes from Latin 'sentire,' meaning 'to feel.'
  • It first appeared in English in the early 19th century, often describing a lack of emotional response.
  • Related terms like 'sentimentalism' refer to the philosophy emphasizing feelings over rational thought.

Psychology

  • People who are considered unsentimental may have a more analytical thinking style, often making decisions based on logic.
  • Research in emotional intelligence shows that recognizing feelings is important, yet some may still choose to act pragmatically.
  • Unsympathetic attitudes can sometimes lead to conflicts in interpersonal relationships, as emotional expressions can be vital for bonding.

Literature

  • Many literary characters are portrayed as unsentimental, often serving as anti-heroes who rely on reason rather than emotion.
  • Classic authors like Hemingway used unsentimental narratives to convey deeper truths about human nature.
  • In poetry, a stark, unsentimental tone can evoke powerful imagery, as seen in the works of modernist poets.

Pop Culture

  • Film protagonists often exhibit unsentimental traits, emphasizing independence or revealing moral complexities.
  • In television, unsentimental characters sometimes challenge societal norms and foster discussions about emotional vs. rational behavior.
  • Comedians often use unsentimental humor to present life’s harsh realities, keeping their tone light while addressing serious subjects.

Philosophy

  • The concept of unsentimentalism aligns with existentialist thinkers who stress the importance of facing reality without illusions.
  • Ethical theories like utilitarianism may also reflect unsentimental reasoning, prioritizing outcomes over emotional attachments.
  • Some philosophical movements appreciate the balance between emotion and reason, advocating for an unsentimental approach when making choices.

Translations

Translations of the word "unsentimental" in other languages:

🇵🇹 insensível

🇮🇳 असंवेदनशील

🇩🇪 unsentimental

🇮🇩 tidak sentimental

🇺🇦 несьентиментальний

🇵🇱 niesentymentalny

🇯🇵 感傷的ではない

🇫🇷 insensible

🇪🇸 insensible

🇹🇷 duygusuz

🇰🇷 비감정적인

🇸🇦 غير عاطفي

🇨🇿 nesentimentální

🇸🇰 nesentimentálny

🇨🇳 不感伤的

🇸🇮 nesentimentalen

🇮🇸 ótilfinningasamur

🇰🇿 сезімсіз

🇬🇪 უგრძნობელი

🇦🇿 hissiz

🇲🇽 insensible

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,966 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.