inhospitably

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ɪnˈhɒspɪtəbli/

KK: /ɪnˈhɑspɪtəbli/

adverb

Definition

In a way that is not welcoming or friendly, often making it difficult for others to feel comfortable or at home.

Example

The travelers were treated inhospitably by the locals, who refused to offer any help.

Conversation

Did you hear how they treated the new guests at the party?

Yeah, I thought they were being really inhospitably towards them.

It's surprising because we usually have a welcoming vibe here.

I know! Hopefully, next time they'll be more friendly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

unwelcoming

hostile

coldly

Antonyms

warmly

hospitably

kindly

Root Explanation

Inhospitably → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "hospitabilis" (from Latin, meaning hospitable or welcoming) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word describes a manner that is not welcoming or friendly, indicating an unwelcoming attitude or environment.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being combined with 'hospitable' — this helps you remember that 'inhospitably' means in a way that is not welcoming.

Visually Confused Words

unhospitably