Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Not befitting a gentleman; lacking the qualities of courtesy, honor, or chivalry expected of a gentleman. It describes behavior that is rude, discourteous, or dishonorable.

Usage and Examples

• Adjective:
  • His ungentlemanly conduct during the debate shocked the audience. (His rude behavior during the debate shocked the audience.)
  • It would be ungentlemanly to reveal her secret. (It would be dishonorable to reveal her secret.)
  • Spreading such rumors is considered ungentlemanly. (Spreading such rumors is considered not befitting a gentleman.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in formal or historical contexts to critique behavior that violates a specific code of honor or etiquette associated with being a 'gentleman'.
• It can imply a failure to meet social expectations of politeness, fairness, or respect, especially towards women or in competitive situations.
  • The boxer was criticized for his ungentlemanly tactics outside the rules of the sport.

Variants and Related Words

• Ungentlemanliness (noun): The quality or state of being ungentlemanly.
  • He was accused of ungentlemanliness for not keeping his promise.

Synonyms

• Discourteous: Showing rudeness and a lack of consideration for others.
• Unchivalrous: Not observing the medieval knightly system with its religious, moral, and social code, or modern standards of gallantry and courtesy.
• Unbecoming: Not fitting or appropriate; unsuitable, especially for a person in a particular role.
• Boorish: Rough and bad-mannered; coarse.

Antonyms

• Gentlemanly: Befitting or characteristic of a gentleman; courteous, honorable.
• Chivalrous: Courteous and gallant, especially toward women.
• Courteous: Polite, respectful, or considerate in manner.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• While there is no specific idiom using "ungentlemanly," the concept is central to phrases like:
  • "Not cricket" (British, informal): Unfair; not in accordance with standards of honorable behavior.

    • His attempt to cheat was simply not cricket. (This implies behavior that is ungentlemanly or unsportsmanlike.)

Adjective

1. not befitting a gentleman