Unset: meaning, definitions and examples

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unset

 

[ ʌnˈsɛt ]

Verb / Adjective
Context #1 | Verb

to remove

To unset means to remove or undo something that has been set or established. It is often used in computer programming to unset a variable or a setting. In everyday language, unset can refer to removing something from its place or position.

Synonyms

clear, remove, undo.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unset

Use when you need to change a setting or value back to its original or default state. Commonly used in programming or settings configurations.

  • Please unset the environment variable before running the script again.
  • If you make a mistake, you can unset the changes and start over.
remove

Best used when you need to delete, eliminate, or take something away. This is widely applicable in various scenarios, from physical objects to digital files.

  • Please remove your shoes before entering.
  • We need to remove the outdated files from the server.
undo

Used when you want to reverse an action or return to a previous state. Commonly appears in software applications, text editing, or any task requiring reversion.

  • Click 'undo' to revert the last change.
  • If you make a mistake, you can always undo your actions.
clear

Appropriate when you want to empty a container, a field, or remove all contents. Often used with forms, caches, or data structures.

  • Clear the cache to resolve the issue.
  • Make sure to clear all fields before submitting the form.

Examples of usage

  • I need to unset the alarm clock for tomorrow morning.
  • The teacher asked the students to unset their desks and move them to the back of the classroom.
Context #2 | Adjective

not set

When something is unset, it means it has not been fixed, arranged, or established. It can refer to a state of being unorganized, unprepared, or lacking structure.

Synonyms

unarranged, unestablished, unfixed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unset

Similar to the first entry, 'unset' is used when referring to something that is not yet finalized. It's frequently used with schedules, emotions, or decisions.

  • The project deadline is unset.
  • Her thoughts on the project are unset.
unfixed

This term is often used to describe something that is not stable or secure. It can refer to physical objects or more abstract concepts like plans or dates.

  • The roof tiles are unfixed.
  • His plans for the future are still unfixed.
unarranged

Typically used when something has not been organized or planned out. This can refer to physical items or plans.

  • The books on the shelf are unarranged.
  • Their travel plans remain unarranged.
unestablished

Used when something has not been verified, proven, or recognized yet. This term is common in professional or scientific contexts.

  • The hypothesis remains unestablished.
  • Her reputation in the field is still unestablished.

Examples of usage

  • The table was left unset after the party.
  • Her mind felt unset as she tried to focus on her work.

Translations

Translations of the word "unset" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desconfigurar

🇮🇳 हटाना

🇩🇪 entfernen

🇮🇩 menghapus

🇺🇦 вимкнути

🇵🇱 odwołać

🇯🇵 解除する

🇫🇷 désactiver

🇪🇸 desactivar

🇹🇷 devre dışı bırakmak

🇰🇷 해제하다

🇸🇦 إلغاء التعيين

🇨🇿 zrušit

🇸🇰 zrušiť

🇨🇳 取消

🇸🇮 preklicati

🇮🇸 aflýsa

🇰🇿 өшіру

🇬🇪 გაუქმება

🇦🇿 ləğv etmək

🇲🇽 desactivar

Etymology

The word 'unset' originated from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the verb 'set'. It first appeared in the English language in the late 14th century. Over time, 'unset' has been used in various contexts to indicate the action of removing or undoing something that has been set. It is commonly used in programming languages and everyday language to describe the act of clearing or unfixing a setting or position.

See also: beset, offset, onset, preset, reset, set, setback, setlist, settability, settee, setting, settings, settling, setup, subset.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,360, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.