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Unwarranted: meaning, definitions and examples

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unwarranted

 

[ʌnˈwɒrəntɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

criticism

Not justified or authorized; uncalled for; groundless.

Synonyms

baseless, unfounded, unjustified.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unwarranted

Use this word when something is done or said without any good reason or necessity, often implying that it is not appropriate or acceptable.

  • The manager's outburst was unwarranted
  • The strict punishment seemed unwarranted given the minor mistake
unjustified

This word is appropriate when something lacks a proper or acceptable reason, often implying that something is unfair or unreasonable.

  • The increased rent charges were unjustified
  • Unjustified delays in service can frustrate customers
unfounded

This word should be used when talking about beliefs or assertions that have no foundation in fact or reality.

  • His fears were unfounded
  • The judge ruled that the accusations were unfounded
baseless

This word is suitable when describing claims or statements that have no evidence or facts to support them.

  • The allegations against him were baseless
  • She dismissed the rumors as baseless

Examples of usage

  • The accusations against him were unwarranted.
  • Her harsh comments were unwarranted and hurtful.
Context #2 | Adjective

action

Done without adequate reason; unjustifiable.

Synonyms

indefensible, unjustifiable, unreasonable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unwarranted

Similarly to 'unwarranted', it describes something without valid reason or evidence, often repetitive in nature.

  • The criticism was unwarranted.
  • Their concern seemed unwarranted given the circumstances.
unjustifiable

Best for describing actions or reasons that cannot be excused or validated.

  • Her excuse for being late was unjustifiable.
  • The company's high prices are unjustifiable.
unreasonable

Refers to something not based on or using reason or logic, often considered extreme or excessive.

  • It was unreasonable of him to expect everyone to work through the weekend.
  • Her demands were completely unreasonable.
indefensible

Utilized in situations where something cannot be defended or justified, often implying a strong moral or logical failure.

  • His behavior was completely indefensible.
  • The decision to cancel the funding was indefensible.

Examples of usage

  • His unwarranted interference only caused more problems.
  • The decision to fire her was completely unwarranted.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Middle English 'warrant,' which means to guarantee or assure.
  • The prefix 'un-' signifies negation, so 'unwarranted' directly translates to 'not guaranteed.'
  • It has been in use since the late 16th century, reflecting a growing concern about justice and fairness.

Legal Context

  • In law, 'unwarranted' often refers to actions taken without legal justification, like an unwarranted search.
  • Legal rights can be violated if actions against a person are classified as unwarranted, leading to court cases.
  • Law enforcement is required to have warrants to conduct searches, preventing unwarranted invasion of privacy.

Psychology

  • In psychological terms, unwarranted beliefs can lead to biases and unfair treatment of others.
  • Cognitive distortions, like jumping to conclusions, often result in unwarranted assumptions about situations or people.
  • Mental health could be affected by unwarranted fears, causing anxiety over things that do not pose real danger.

Pop Culture

  • In many movies, characters face unwarranted criticism that leads to their downfall, showcasing themes of injustice.
  • Songs often discuss unwarranted love, where feelings are not reciprocated or are misunderstood.
  • Television shows frequently depict scenarios where characters receive unwarranted fame, critiquing society's values.

Everyday Life

  • People sometimes experience unwarranted compliments or praises that make them feel uncomfortable.
  • Unwarranted opinions, especially on social media, can lead to heated debates and misunderstandings.
  • In friendships, unwarranted jealousy can strain relationships, often leading to unnecessary conflict.

Translations

Translations of the word "unwarranted" in other languages:

🇵🇹 não justificado

🇮🇳 अनुचित

🇩🇪 unbegründet

🇮🇩 tidak beralasan

🇺🇦 невиправданий

🇵🇱 nieuzasadniony

🇯🇵 不当な

🇫🇷 non justifié

🇪🇸 injustificado

🇹🇷 haksız

🇰🇷 정당하지 않은

🇸🇦 غير مبرر

🇨🇿 neoprávněný

🇸🇰 neoprávnený

🇨🇳 无根据的

🇸🇮 neupravičen

🇮🇸 óhefðbundinn

🇰🇿 негізсіз

🇬🇪 უსაფუძვლო

🇦🇿 əsassız

🇲🇽 injustificado

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,053, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.