uninvited
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˌʌnɪnvˈaɪtɪd/
US
- /ˌənɪnˈvaɪtɪd/
Description
- unasked
- unwelcome
- unbidden
- not requested
Imagine throwing a party, a really great one. Now imagine someone showing up who wasn't on the guest list. That person is uninvited. It means they were not asked to come, and their presence might make things awkward.
"Uninvited" can describe people, of course, but also things like opinions, advice, or comments. You might offer an uninvited opinion during a meeting, or get uninvited advice from someone who jumps into your problem. The word often suggests that something is not welcome, even if it is not openly rejected.
The word "uninvited" describes someone or something that hasn't been asked to be present at an event, place, or situation. It implies a lack of permission or welcome, and often carries a sense of intrusion or a lack of inclusion.
Think about it like this: if you host a dinner party, those on your guest list are invited. Anyone who shows up without an invitation is uninvited. This can range from a simple social faux pas to something more serious, depending on the context.
"Uninvited" isn't always about parties, though. You might receive uninvited advice, meaning suggestions you didn't ask for and may not want. A thought or feeling can also be described as uninvited; perhaps an uninvited sadness creeps into your day. It can even describe something abstract, like an uninvited comparison to her sister.
The key is that whatever is "uninvited" wasn't sought after or welcomed. It highlights a boundary being crossed. While it doesn't necessarily mean the person or thing shouldn't be there, it emphasizes they weren't asked, and their presence might be considered inappropriate or unwelcome.
Examples
- 1
Social event
He showed up at the wedding uninvited.
- 2
Dinner guests
We had to find extra chairs when two uninvited guests arrived for dinner.
- 3
Advice
She was polite, but my uninvited advice clearly annoyed her.
Phrase
uninvited advice
advice no one asked for
- 4
Criticism
The team welcomes feedback, but constant uninvited criticism wears people down.
- 5
Media attention
After the court case, cameras and reporters became an uninvited part of their daily lives.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- uninvitedadjective