Unwittingly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unwittingly

[ʌnˈwɪtɪŋli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

unintentionally

Without being aware or realizing; unintentionally.

Synonyms

accidentally, inadvertently, unintentionally.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unwittingly

This word is used when someone does something without realizing it or without intent. It suggests a lack of awareness or consciousness.

  • She unwittingly revealed the surprise party plans.
unintentionally

This word is used to describe actions that occur without intention, often in situations where there was no desire to cause a particular outcome.

  • He unintentionally offended his friend.
accidentally

This word is used when something happens by mistake, without any intention or plan. It often refers to incidents or errors.

  • He accidentally knocked over the vase.
inadvertently

This word is used when something happens without being planned or intended, often due to carelessness or oversight.

  • She inadvertently sent the email to the wrong person.

Examples of usage

  • She unwittingly offended her colleague by making a thoughtless comment.
  • He unwittingly revealed the surprise party to his sister by accident.
Context #2 | Adverb

without knowledge

Without knowledge or awareness.

Synonyms

ignorantly, unaware, without knowledge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unwittingly

When someone does something without intending to or without knowing the full consequences of their actions.

  • She unwittingly shared confidential information during the conversation
without knowledge

Used to describe actions or situations where someone is completely lacking information about a particular matter.

  • He signed the contract without knowledge of its full implications
unaware

Describing a state where someone does not know about something that could be important or relevant.

  • She was unaware of the new policy changes at work
ignorantly

When someone acts or speaks without being aware of important facts or knowledge. It often carries a negative connotation.

  • He ignorantly dismissed the scientific evidence presented to him

Examples of usage

  • She unwittingly walked into a top-secret meeting without realizing it.
  • He unwittingly purchased a stolen item without knowing its origins.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'unwittingly'

The word 'unwittingly' originated from the combination of 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'witting' meaning 'knowing'. It first appeared in the English language in the early 16th century.


See also: outwit, wit, witness, witticism, wittily, wittiness, witty.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,071, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.