unjustly

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ʌnˈdʒʌstli/

KK: /ʌnˈdʒʌstli/

adverb

Definition

In a way that is not fair or right; in a manner that is not just.

Example

The decision was made unjustly, without considering all the facts.

Conversation

I can't believe they treated him unjustly in that meeting.

Yeah, it was really unfair how they dismissed his ideas.

It just feels wrong to see someone so talented being unjustly overlooked.

Totally! I hope he gets the recognition he deserves soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

unfairly

inequitably

wrongfully

Antonyms

fairly

justly

rightfully

Root Explanation

Unjustly → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "justus" (from Latin, meaning just or fair) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "unjustly" means in a manner that is not just or fair.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'just' ('justus') to remember that 'unjustly' means acting in a way that is not fair.

Visually Confused Words