uneasily
/ʌn'i:zili/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adverb:
- In a manner marked by mental discomfort, worry, or anxiety: The word describes doing something while feeling troubled, nervous, or apprehensive.
- In a physically uncomfortable or awkward manner: It can also describe moving or sitting in a way that is not relaxed or natural.
Usage
The adverb "uneasily" modifies verbs to describe how an action is performed with a sense of discomfort, worry, or physical awkwardness. It often precedes the verb it modifies or appears at the end of a clause.
Examples
- With mental discomfort or worry:
- She shifted uneasily in her chair during the tense meeting.
- He waited uneasily for the test results.
- In a physically awkward manner:
- The large package fit uneasily into the small trunk of the car.
Advanced Usage
- "to sit/stand/rest uneasily": To be in a position while feeling troubled or physically uncomfortable.
- The new evidence sits uneasily with the witness's original testimony. (Suggests a figurative discomfort due to inconsistency.)
- "to lie uneasily on one's mind": To be a source of persistent worry or concern.
- The memory of the argument lay uneasily on his mind for days.
Variants and Related Words
- Uneasy (adjective): Causing or feeling anxiety; troubled or uncomfortable.
- She had an uneasy feeling about the plan.
- Uneasiness (noun): A state of mental or physical discomfort.
- A feeling of uneasiness filled the room.
Synonyms
- Anxiously: In a manner showing worry or nervousness.
- Apprehensively: In a fearful or uneasy manner about the future.
- Restlessly: In a constantly moving, fidgeting, or agitated way.
- Awkwardly: In a clumsy or physically uncomfortable manner.
Antonyms
- Calmly: In a peaceful and untroubled manner.
- Comfortably: In a relaxed and physically content way.
- Confidently: In a self-assured and untroubled manner.
Related Phrases
- To watch/look on uneasily: To observe a situation with growing concern or discomfort.
- The parents watched uneasily as their child climbed the tall tree.
Adverb
- with anxiety or apprehension
- we watched anxiously