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What is another word for Unkindly? – 196 Unkindly Synonyms

    Need another word for Unkindly? Use these synonyms of Unkindly from our thesaurus to say it differently.


    Synonyms & Similar Words

    cruelly harshly brutally mercilessly pitilessly heartlessly callously inhumanly ruthlessly savagely barbarously viciously violently ferociously fiercely sternly strictly severely sharply coldly unfriendly unpleasantly disagreeably uncharitably ungenerously unsympathetically unfeelingly impersonally detachedly uncaringly unkind mean nasty spiteful malevolent malignant hurtful wounding damaging injurious harmful abusive offensive insulting derogatory disparaging belittling demeaning degrading

    Meaning of Unkindly

    The primary meaning of "Unkindly" is to act or behave in a manner that is not kind or gentle.

    Definitions

    • In a way that is not kind or gentle, but rather harsh or unfriendly
    • In a manner that shows a lack of sympathy or compassion
    • Unfavourably or disapprovingly, in a way that is critical or ungenerous

    Etymology of Unkindly

    The word "Unkindly" originates from Old English "unkind" and "-ly", with "unkind" being derived from "un-" (meaning "not") and "cynd" or "kind" (meaning "natural, innate, or native")
    Historically, "unkind" initially meant "unnatural" or "alien", but its meaning shifted over time to convey a sense of lack of kindness or gentleness
    The adverbial form "Unkindly" emerged in Middle English, with its modern usage reflecting a sense of harshness, unfriendliness, or lack of sympathy

    Example Uses

    • The teacher spoke unkindly to the student, making them feel belittled and embarrassed
    • The company treated its employees unkindly, providing them with poor working conditions and low wages
    • The reviewer wrote unkindly about the new restaurant, criticizing its food and service

    Antonyms & Near Antonyms

    kindly gently softly warmly friendly generously sympathetically compassionately humanely mercifully pityingly charitably benevolently graciously politely courteously considerately thoughtfully carefully tenderly lovingly affectionately warmly agreeably pleasantly nicely sweetly