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Unhelpfully - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

unhelpfully

/ʌnˈhɛlpfəli/ /ʌnˈhɛlpfəli/

Definition:

In a manner that does not provide assistance or support, often obstructively.

Synonyms:

uncooperatively, obstructively, counterproductively

Part of Speech:

adverb

Antonyms:

helpfully, supportively, constructively

Common Collocations:

respond unhelpfully, act unhelpfully, answer unhelpfully

Derivatives:

unhelpful, unhelpfulness

Usage Tips:

Use "unhelpfully" to describe actions that hinder rather than assist, often with a negative tone.

Common Phrases:

shrug unhelpfully, comment unhelpfully, stand by unhelpfully

Etymology:

Derived from "un-" (not) + "helpful" (providing aid) + "-ly" (adverbial suffix).

Examples:

  • 1. She sighed unhelpfully instead of offering advice.
  • 2. He shrugged unhelpfully when asked for directions.
  • 3. The clerk responded unhelpfully to my question.
  • 4. They stood by unhelpfully during the crisis.

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