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Unsavory - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

unsavory

/ʌnˈseɪvəri/ /ʌnˈseɪvəri/

Definition:

Disagreeable in taste, smell, or character; morally offensive or unpleasant.

Synonyms:

Distasteful, unpleasant, disagreeable, offensive, repugnant

Part of Speech:

Adjective

Antonyms:

Pleasant, agreeable

Common Collocations:

Unsavory reputation, unsavory character, unsavory details, unsavory business

Derivatives:

Unsavoriness, unsavorily

Usage Tips:

Use "unsavory" to describe something morally questionable or physically unpleasant; often refers to people or situations with negative connotations.

Common Phrases:

Unsavory character, unsavory past, unsavory dealings

Etymology:

From Middle English "unsavoury," combining "un-" (not) + "savoury" (pleasant-tasting or morally good).

Examples:

  • 1. The restaurant had an unsavory odor that made us leave quickly.
  • 2. His unsavory reputation kept many people from trusting him.
  • 3. She avoided the topic due to its unsavory details.
  • 4. The politician was involved in some unsavory business deals last year.

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