Definition

In a way that is simple and genuine, without trying to impress others.

Example

She spoke unpretentiously, sharing her thoughts without any showiness.

Conversation

I really appreciate how he speaks so unpretentiously at those events.

Absolutely, it makes him much more relatable.

Yeah, it feels like he genuinely cares about the audience.

Exactly! That's what draws people in.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unpretentiously → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not), "pretentious" (from Latin "praetendere", meaning to stretch forth or claim), and "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word describes a manner of being that is not claiming or stretching forth to show off, hence, modestly or simply.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being 'showy' ('pretentious') — so unpretentiously means acting in a modest or simple way.

Visually Confused Words