What does uncooperatively mean?
Uncooperatively is an adverb meaning in a manner that shows unwillingness to cooperate, assist, or work with others. It describes actions or behavior that are obstructive, resistant, or deliberately unhelpful, rather than simply unsuccessful. The word is commonly used in formal accounts of negotiations, workplaces, committees, legal proceedings, and interactions involving institutions or groups. Its connotation is generally negative: it often suggests that someone is making a deliberate effort to hinder cooperation, although the severity of the behavior can vary by context. Uncooperatively is related to the adjective uncooperative and the core word cooperate, but it focuses specifically on the manner of behavior. Using the adverb can make a description sound objective while still strongly implying stubbornness or antagonism.
adverbIn a manner that shows unwillingness to cooperate, assist, or work with others. The word can suggest resistance, obstinacy, or deliberate obstruction.
- In a manner that is unwilling to cooperate or assist others.
"The witness responded uncooperatively, refusing to answer questions or provide the requested documents."
"Several members of the committee acted uncooperatively and prevented the proposal from reaching a vote."
"The software behaves uncooperatively when it encounters an unexpected command."
Uncooperatively turns the idea of “working together” into a description of refusing to work together.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does uncooperatively come from?
Uncooperatively was formed in modern English from uncooperative, an adjective built with the negative prefix un- and the Latin-derived word cooperative. The underlying verb cooperate comes from Latin cooperari, meaning “to work together.” The adverb form adds -ly to uncooperative, expressing the manner in which an action is performed.
How uncooperatively is actually used
This is a formal-to-neutral word commonly used to describe behavior that obstructs cooperation. It often implies persistent resistance rather than a simple temporary inability to help.
Easily confused with uncooperatively
Uncooperative is an adjective describing a person, group, or thing, while uncooperatively is an adverb describing the manner in which someone or something acts.