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uncooperative

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: //ˌʌn.kəʊˈɒp.ər.ə.tɪv//

KK: /ʌnkoʊˈɒpərətɪv/

adjective
Definition

Not willing to help or work with others; resistant to cooperation.


Example

The uncooperative student refused to participate in group activities.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the meeting today?
Sloth B
Yeah, I heard it was pretty uncooperative with everyone arguing.
Sloth A
That's frustrating! We really need to work together.
Sloth B
I know, right? Hopefully, things will improve next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
obstinate
stubborn
recalcitrant
Antonyms
compliant
cooperative
agreeable
Root Explanation

Uncooperative → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "cooperative" (from Latin "cooperari", meaning to work together). The word describes a state of not working together or being unwilling to cooperate.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') working 'together' ('cooperative') — that's why uncooperative means not willing to work together.

Visually Confused Words
unoperative
nonoperative
inoperative
operative
unpejorative
unimperative
undecorative
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