Definition

1. Adverb:
   • In a way that shows disapproval or a negative opinion: "unfavourably" describes an action done in a manner that expresses criticism, dislike, or a lack of support.
   • In a way that is disadvantageous or not beneficial: It can also describe a situation or comparison that puts someone or something at a disadvantage.

Usage Examples

• Adverb:
  • The critic wrote unfavourably about the new restaurant. (The critic's review expressed strong disapproval of the new restaurant.)
  • Her application was viewed unfavourably by the committee. (The committee looked upon her application with a negative or critical attitude.)
  • Our company's performance compares unfavourably with last year's results. (This year's performance is worse or less advantageous when placed next to last year's.)

Advanced Usage

• "to react unfavourably (to something)": to respond with disapproval or negativity.
  • The market reacted unfavourably to the CEO's sudden resignation. (Investors responded negatively, likely causing stock prices to fall.)
• "to judge/treat someone unfavourably": to form a negative opinion about or give disadvantageous treatment to someone.
  • The study found that some candidates were judged unfavourably based on their accents. (The candidates received negative evaluations because of how they spoke.)

Variants and Related Words

• Unfavorable (adjective, US spelling): not favorable; expressing or showing disapproval; disadvantageous.
  • The unfavorable weather forced us to cancel the picnic.
• Unfavourable (adjective, UK spelling): The British English spelling of "unfavorable".
• Favourably/Favorably (adverb): The opposite, meaning in a way that shows approval or is advantageous.
  • She spoke favourably of her experience.

Synonyms

• Adversely: in a way that prevents success or development; harmfully.
• Critically: in a way that expresses disapproval or analyzes faults.
• Negatively: in a way that considers only the bad qualities; with a lack of enthusiasm or agreement.
• Poorly: in an unsatisfactory or inadequate way.

Antonyms

• Favourably/Favorably
• Positively
• Approvingly
• Well

Related Phrases

• In an unfavourable light: Presented or perceived in a way that creates a bad impression.
  • The documentary portrayed the politician in an unfavourable light. (The documentary made the politician look bad.)
• Stack up unfavourably: To compare poorly with something else.
  • Our software stacks up unfavourably against the leading competitor's product. (Our software is noticeably worse when compared.)

Adverb

1. showing disapproval; in a disparaging way
   • he reviewed the play unfavorably