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unpopularity

A2
noun

Pronunciation

UK

  • /ʌnpˌɒpjʊlˈærɪti/

US

  • /ənˌpɑpjəˈlɛrɪti/

Description

This word describes the state of not being liked, supported, or welcomed by many people. It does not always mean strong hatred. More often, it means that a person, idea, product, or decision does not win public approval. A new rule may face this kind of reaction if people think it is unfair. A public figure may go through it after making a choice that many people dislike. Sometimes it passes quickly, and sometimes it lasts for a long time.

You can imagine a singer whose new style disappoints fans, or a leader whose policy loses support. In both cases, the problem is not always deep anger. It is often a broad feeling that people are no longer in favor of what they see or hear.

Examples

  1. 1

    Local politics

    The mayor's unpopularity grew after the city raised parking fees.

  2. 2

    School policy

    The policy's unpopularity with parents surprised the school board.

  3. 3

    Voters

    He refused to change his decision, even when his unpopularity among voters became obvious.

  4. 4

    Reform

    Leaders sometimes accept short-term unpopularity in order to achieve long-term reform.

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • unpopularitynoun