Definition

Something that is not enjoyable or causes discomfort.

Example

The smell from the garbage was very unpleasant.

Conversation

I had an unpleasant experience at the restaurant last night.

Oh no, what happened?

The food was cold and the service was really slow, it was just unpleasant overall.

That sounds terrible! I wouldn't want to go back there either.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unpleasant → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "pleasant" (from Latin "placere", meaning to please). The word "unpleasant" means not pleasing or causing discomfort.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to something that 'pleases' ('placere') — that's why unpleasant means something that does not please.

Visually Confused Words