What does untoward mean?
The word 'untoward' is an adjective that describes situations or events that are unfavorable or inauspicious. It is often used to convey a sense of ominous or foreboding events. In formal or literary contexts, 'untoward' can be used to describe situations that are unfavorable or inauspicious. The word has been in use since the 15th century and is derived from the Old English words 'toward' and 'un-'. It is often used in conjunction with other words that convey a sense of negativity or adversity. For example, 'The company's untoward financial decisions led to bankruptcy.' or 'The weather forecast predicted an untoward storm for the weekend.' The word 'untoward' is a useful addition to any writer's or speaker's vocabulary, as it can add depth and nuance to descriptions of unfavorable or inauspicious events.
Not favorable or propitious; unfavorable or inauspicious.
"The weather forecast predicted an untoward storm for the weekend."
In formal or literary contexts, 'untoward' can convey a sense of ominous or foreboding events.
In an unfavorable or inauspicious manner.
"The company's untowardly managed finances led to bankruptcy."
The adverbial form of 'untoward' is less common than the adjectival form, but can be used to convey a sense of unfavorable or inauspicious action or behavior.
The plural form of 'untoward' is 'untowards', which is used to describe situations or events that are unfavorable or inauspicious in a collective or general sense.
"The untowards circumstances of the company's financial decisions led to bankruptcy."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of untoward
The word 'untoward' is derived from the Old English words 'toward' and 'un-'. The word 'toward' is thought to have originated from the Proto-Germanic word '*tawiz', which is also the source of the Modern English word 'toward'. The prefix 'un-' is a negation prefix that is used to indicate the opposite of a word's meaning. The word 'untoward' has been in use since the 15th century and has been used in a variety of contexts, including literature and formal writing.
How untoward is actually used
In formal or literary contexts, 'untoward' can convey a sense of ominous or foreboding events. It is often used to describe situations that are unfavorable or inauspicious.