Unpleasant
/ʌnˈplɛzənt/
Definitions
Causing disapproval, displeasure, or discomfort.
/ʌnˈplɛzənt/
Causing discomfort or annoyance.
The smell from the garbage can was very unpleasant.
💡 Simply: Something that's not nice or makes you feel bad. Like when your food tastes yucky or when someone says mean things.
👶 For kids: Something that's not fun or makes you feel bad. Like when your ice cream melts all over your hand!
More Examples
He had an unpleasant encounter with a rude customer.
The rain created an unpleasant atmosphere for the outdoor concert.
How It's Used
"The weather was unpleasant during the camping trip."
"He experienced an unpleasant feeling when he remembered the argument."
Idioms & expressions
unpleasant surprise
An unexpected event or revelation that is unwelcome or causes distress.
"The audit results were an unpleasant surprise for the company."
unpleasant truth
A fact that is difficult or painful to accept or acknowledge, but is nonetheless true.
"The investigation revealed some unpleasant truths about the company's practices."
From Middle English *unplesant*, from Old French *desplaisant* meaning 'displeasing', from *des-* (dis-) + *plaisant* (pleasant).
The word 'unpleasant' has been used in English since the late 14th century, initially referring to something that causes displeasure.
Memory tip
Think of something you *dislike* or that makes you *frown*.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: Plaisant