inhospitality

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ɪnˌhɒspɪˈtæləti/

KK: /ɪnˌhɑːspɪˈtælɪti/

noun

Definition

A situation where someone is not welcoming or friendly to guests or visitors.

Example

The inhospitality of the place made it uncomfortable for travelers.

Conversation

Did you notice the inhospitality at that restaurant last night?

Yeah, it was really surprising how unfriendly the staff was.

I expected better service, honestly; their inhospitality was off-putting.

Same here. I don't think I'll go back anytime soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

unfriendliness

coldness

hostility

Antonyms

hospitality

warmth

friendliness

Root Explanation

Inhospitality → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "hospitality" (from Latin "hospitālitās", meaning the friendly reception of guests). The word "inhospitality" means the state of not being welcoming or friendly to guests.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being combined with 'friendly reception of guests' ('hospitality') — that's why inhospitality means a lack of welcome.

Visually Confused Words