unfavorably
Meaning
in a way that shows disapproval or dislike
in a way that is disadvantageous or likely to cause problems
Structure
Usage
the committee looked unfavorably upon his late application.
recent economic trends have shifted unfavorably for small exporters.
she compared the product unfavorably with its main competitor.
Etymology
the word "unfavorably" is built upon the latin noun favor, meaning "goodwill" or "kindly regard," which itself derives from the verb favere, "to show kindness to." the negating prefix "un-," of old english origin, was attached to the adjective "favorable" to create its opposite. finally, the adverbial suffix "-ly," also from old english, was added to form the adverb, completing a logical journey from the concept of showing kindness to its precise opposite in manner: acting in a way that shows disapproval or creates disadvantage.
Analysis
- un: a prefix of germanic origin (old english) meaning "not," serving a negating function. - favor: from latin favor (goodwill, approval), serving as the core noun root. - ably: from latin -abilis (able to be) via old french -able and the adverbial suffix -ly, combining to mean "in a manner that can be."