unaffected

/ˌʌnəˈfɛktɪd/
not influenced

Despite the criticism, she remained unaffected by the negative comments.

She did not let the criticism change her behavior or emotions.


general

not influenced or changed by something

The market remained unaffected by the political turmoil.

The market did not show any reaction to the political turmoil.

He was unaffected by the harsh weather conditions.

He did not feel the impact of the harsh weather.

Often used to describe emotions, behavior, or situations that remain unchanged despite external factors.

literary

genuine; not pretending or insincere

Her unaffected smile showed her true happiness.

Her smile appeared natural and not forced.

Used to describe emotions or expressions that are real and not artificial.

Collocations

remain unaffectedto stay the same despite somethingseem unaffectedto appear not influenced

Pro Tip

Avoid confusion with 'unaffected' vs. 'unaffectedly'

'Unaffected' is an adjective, while 'unaffectedly' is an adverb. Example: 'She spoke unaffectedly' (adverb) means she spoke naturally, while 'She was unaffected' (adjective) means she was not influenced.

Gold Rule

Use 'unaffected' for emotional or situational resilience

When describing someone who remains calm or unchanged despite challenges, use 'unaffected.' Example: 'He was unaffected by the bad news.'

Use 'genuine' for authenticity in expressions

When describing a natural or sincere expression, 'unaffected' can imply genuineness. Example: 'Her unaffected laughter was contagious.'

Word Origin

From Middle English 'unaffectede', from Latin 'inaffectus' (uninfluenced), from 'in-' (not) + 'affectus' (affected, from 'afficere' meaning 'to influence').

Usage Notes

Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. In emotional contexts, it often implies resilience or indifference. In describing behavior or expressions, it suggests authenticity.

Word Breakdown

un-
not
prefix
+
affected
influenced or changed
root
English Dictionary