Definition

Not arriving or happening at the expected or scheduled time.

Example

He is often unpunctual for meetings, which frustrates his colleagues.

Conversation

I noticed you were a bit late to the meeting today.

Yeah, I can be a little unpunctual sometimes.

It's okay, but you know how important it is to be on time.

I know, I'll try to work on that for the next one.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unpunctual → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "punctual" (from Latin "punctualis", meaning pertaining to a point in time). The word "unpunctual" means not being on time or not adhering to a scheduled point in time.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'on time' ('punctual') — that's why unpunctual means not being on time.

Visually Confused Words