unpleasant

/ʌnˈplɛz.ənt/
adjectiveIntermediate disagreeable or causing discomfort
informal

causing discomfort, annoyance, or distress

The unpleasant taste of the medicine made it hard to swallow.

The bad flavor of the medication made it difficult to take.

She had an unpleasant encounter with a rude customer.

She experienced an uncomfortable interaction with an impolite person.

💡

Often used to describe sensory experiences, social interactions, or situations that evoke negative feelings.

Related Phrases

an unpleasant truthphrase
a difficult or uncomfortable fact
unpleasantnessphrase
the state of being disagreeable or uncomfortable

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

Use 'unpleasant' for mild to moderate discomfort, while 'horrible' or 'terrible' may be stronger.

Gold Rule

Avoid Overuse

Overusing 'unpleasant' can make your speech or writing sound repetitive. Vary your vocabulary with synonyms.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'unplesaunt,' from Old French 'desplaisant,' from Latin 'displicare' (to displease).

📝Usage Notes

Commonly used to describe sensory experiences (smell, taste, touch) or social situations that evoke discomfort.

Word Breakdown

un-
not
prefix
+
pleasant
agreeable or enjoyable
root
English Dictionary