What does unsuspectingly mean?
The adverb 'unsuspectingly' is used to indicate that something is done without arousing suspicion or expectation. It is often used to describe actions that are done without realizing the potential consequences or risks involved. This can include actions that are done without caution or attention, such as walking into a trap or driving through a city without noticing roadworks. The word can also be used to describe actions that are done without arousing suspicion or attention, such as talking to someone without realizing they are a spy. The connotation of 'unsuspectingly' is often one of naivety or lack of awareness, and it is a useful word to use in situations where the speaker wants to convey a sense of surprise or unexpectedness. It is a relatively formal word and is often used in writing or in more formal spoken language.
adverbUsed to indicate that something is done without arousing suspicion or expectation.
- Used to indicate that something is done without arousing suspicion or expectation.
"She walked unsuspectingly into the trap, unaware of the danger that lay ahead."
"She walked unsuspectingly into the trap, unaware of the danger that lay ahead."
"He drove unsuspectingly through the city, oblivious to the roadworks ahead."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of unsuspectingly
The word 'unsuspectingly' is derived from the adjective 'suspect', which means having or showing a reason to believe that something is true or likely. The prefix 'un-' is added to indicate the opposite of 'suspect', and the suffix '-ingly' is added to form an adverb. The word has been in use since the 17th century and has been influenced by Latin and French.
How unsuspectingly is actually used
This adverb is often used to describe actions that are done without realizing the potential consequences or risks involved. It can also be used to describe actions that are done without arousing suspicion or attention.