Definition

To forget something that you have learned or to stop using a particular skill or habit.

Example

She decided to unlearn the negative thoughts that had been holding her back.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I’ve been trying to unlearn my bad study habits lately.

That sounds like a good plan! What habits are you focusing on?

Mainly procrastination; I really need to break that cycle.

I get that! It's tough, but unlearning those habits is definitely possible.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unlearn → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not or opposite of) and "learn" (from Old English "leornian", meaning to acquire knowledge). The word "unlearn" means to reverse the process of learning or to discard knowledge previously acquired.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' or 'opposite' ('un-') when you want to remember that 'unlearn' means to forget or discard what you have learned.

Visually Confused Words