uncomfortably

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /ʌnˈkʌmfərtəbli/

KK: /ʌnˈkʌmfərtəbli/

adverb

Definition

In a way that causes discomfort or unease.

Example

She shifted uncomfortably in her seat during the long meeting.

Conversation

Did you notice how uncomfortably quiet it got during the meeting?

Yeah, it felt really awkward, didn’t it?

I always feel uncomfortably nervous when there's silence like that.

Same here! I wish someone would just break the ice.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

awkwardly

uneasily

discomfortably

Antonyms

comfortably

easily

smoothly

Root Explanation

Uncomfortably → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "comfortable" (from Latin "comfortare", meaning to strengthen or soothe) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "uncomfortably" means in a manner that is not comfortable or causing discomfort.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'comfortable' — this helps you remember that 'uncomfortably' means in a way that is not comfortable.

Visually Confused Words