Definition

In a way that does not provide help or support.

Example

She responded unhelpfully to my questions about the project.

Conversation

Why did you ask him for help with your project?

He just answered unhelpfully and left me confused.

That sounds frustrating; I thought he was supposed to be knowledgeable.

Yeah, it’s like he didn’t even try to help at all.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unhelpfully → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "help" (from Old English "helpan", meaning to assist) and "-fully" (meaning in a manner full of). The word "unhelpfully" means in a manner that is not helpful or not providing assistance.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being combined with 'help' to remember that 'unhelpfully' means acting in a way that does not provide assistance.

Visually Confused Words