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unapproachable

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌʌnəˈproʊtʃəbl/

KK: /ʌnəˈproʊtʃəbl/

adjective
Definition

This word describes someone or something that is difficult to reach or talk to, often because they seem unfriendly or distant.


Example

The unapproachable teacher made it hard for students to ask questions.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you notice how unapproachable Sarah seems at work lately?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's like she doesn't want to talk to anyone.
Sloth A
I wonder if she's feeling overwhelmed or just having a rough time.
Sloth B
Could be! Sometimes people put up walls when they're stressed.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
aloof
distant
remote
Antonyms
accessible
friendly
approachable
Root Explanation

Unapproachable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "approach" (from Old French *aprochier*, meaning to come near). The word means not able to be approached or not welcoming to others.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'come near' ('approach') — this helps you remember that unapproachable means someone or something that cannot be easily reached or is not welcoming.

Visually Confused Words
inapproachable
approachable
approachabl
unreproachable
inapproachably
unreachable
uncoachable
approachableness
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