Definition

In a way that is not wanted or is considered bad.

Example

The project was affected undesirably by the sudden changes in management.

Conversation

I noticed you were feeling a bit off at the party last night.

Yeah, I felt like I was acting undesirably in front of everyone.

It's tough to be in a social setting when you're not yourself.

Totally! I should have just stepped outside for a bit.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Undesirably → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "desirable" (from Latin "desiderabilis", meaning worthy of desire) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "undesirably" means in a manner that is not worthy of desire or not wanted.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') and something that is 'worthy of desire' ('desirable') — when something is done 'in a manner' ('-ly') that is not wanted, it is considered undesirable.

Visually Confused Words