Unsteadily Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ถ
unsteadily
[สnหstษdษli ]
Definitions
in movement
In a way that lacks stability or firmness; with wavering or unsteady motion.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unsteadily |
Use this word when describing something or someone that is not firmly or solidly positioned and is likely to fall or sway.
|
| shakily |
This word is often chosen when emphasizing a trembling or wavering motion, suggesting a lack of confidence or strength. It can also imply nervousness or fear.
|
| unfirmly |
Use this term in formal or technical contexts to indicate that something lacks solidity or firmness. It is less commonly used in everyday conversation.
|
Examples of usage
- She walked unsteadily along the narrow path.
- The old man held onto the railing unsteadily as he climbed the stairs.
in behavior
In a hesitant or uncertain manner; without confidence or assurance.
Synonyms
hesitantly, insecurely, uncertainly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unsteadily |
Used to describe physical instability or when someone or something is shaky or wobbly.
|
| uncertainly |
Indicates a state of doubt or unpredictability, can apply to both physical actions and mental states.
|
| insecurely |
Conveys a sense of lack of security or confidence, often used in both physical and emotional contexts.
|
| hesitantly |
Describes hesitation or a pause before taking action, often due to uncertainty or lack of confidence.
|
Examples of usage
- She spoke unsteadily, unsure of what to say.
- His voice trembled unsteadily as he confessed his mistake.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Movement can affect how we feel; unsteadiness might signal anxiety or nervousness.
- People often exhibit unsteady behavior when they are uncertain or facing unfamiliar situations.
- Studies show that when someone feels unsteady physically, their confidence often decreases in social settings.
Pop Culture
- In movies, characters often walk unsteadily to depict fear or disorientation during a tense moment.
- Music sometimes uses the concept of unsteadiness in lyrics to express emotional turmoil or instability.
- Dance styles, like contemporary dance, may include unsteady movements to evoke a sense of vulnerability.
Science
- Unsteady gait can be a sign of medical conditions such as neurological disorders or inner ear issues.
- Research in biomechanics looks at unsteady movements to improve balance training techniques.
- The study of how we maintain our balance involves understanding how our senses and muscles work together.
Literature
- Unsteadiness in characters often serves as a metaphor for their emotional or psychological struggles.
- Poems frequently use imagery of unsteady movements to convey themes of instability in love or life.
- Classic novels might describe protagonists as walking unsteadily to highlight their inner turmoil.
Origin of 'unsteadily'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from 'un' meaning 'not', and 'steady', which means fixed, balanced, or stable.
- The prefix 'un-' indicates negation and is used in many English words to express the opposite.
- The root 'steady' is derived from Old English 'stรฆdig', meaning firm or secure.
The word 'unsteadily' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the adjective 'steady' which comes from Middle English 'stedi' and Old English 'stede', meaning 'place, position'. The adverb 'unsteadily' first appeared in the English language in the 15th century.
Word Frequency Rank
At rank #26,831, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.
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