Definition

Not good or positive; likely to cause problems or difficulties.

Example

The weather conditions were unfavorable for the outdoor event.

Conversation

I heard the weather forecast for this weekend is looking unfavorable.

Really? That’s such a bummer, we were planning a picnic.

Yeah, I guess we’ll have to come up with a backup plan.

Exactly! Maybe we can just have a movie day instead.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unfavorable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "favorable" (from Latin "favorem", meaning favor or goodwill). The word "unfavorable" means not showing favor or goodwill, indicating a negative condition or situation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being combined with 'favor' ('favorem') to remember that 'unfavorable' describes a situation that does not show support or goodwill.

Visually Confused Words