unobtrusive

Thân thiện

She placed an unobtrusive vase of wildflowers on the corner of the desk.

Definition

Adjective: 1. Not conspicuous or attracting attention: Describes something or someone that does not draw notice to itself; discreet, subtle, or inconspicuous. 2. Not obtrusive: Not interfering, intrusive, or pushy; pleasantly subtle or restrained.

Usage

The adjective "unobtrusive" describes a manner, presence, or quality that is subtle and does not impose itself on others or the surroundings. It is often used to praise discretion, modesty, or effective design that blends in seamlessly.

Examples

• The security cameras were small and unobtrusive, placed high in the corners of the room.
• She preferred an unobtrusive style of leadership, guiding her team quietly from the background.
• The waiter provided excellent, unobtrusive service, refilling glasses without interrupting the conversation.
• The building's design was modern yet unobtrusive, complementing the historic neighborhood.

Advanced Usage

• In a technical or design context: Refers to elements (like software interfaces, architectural features, or research methods) that do not disrupt the primary function or experience.
  • The app uses an unobtrusive notification system that doesn't distract from the main task.
  • The researcher used unobtrusive observation to study the group's natural behavior.

Variants and Related Words

• Unobtrusively (adverb): In an unobtrusive manner.
  • He moved unobtrusively through the crowd.
• Unobtrusiveness (noun): The quality of being unobtrusive.
  • The unobtrusiveness of the design is its greatest strength.

Synonyms

• Inconspicuous
• Discreet
• Subtle
• Unassuming
• Restrained
• Low-key

Antonyms

• Obtrusive
• Conspicuous
• Prominent
• Intrusive
• Noticeable
• Ostentatious

Related Phrases and Concepts

• To remain unobtrusive: To stay in the background without drawing attention.
  • The bodyguard's job was to remain unobtrusive while providing protection.
• Unobtrusive presence: A subtle or barely noticeable existence or influence.
  • The software runs in the background with an unobtrusive presence.

Học thuật

Adjective

1. not obtrusive or undesirably noticeable
   • a quiet, unobtrusive life of self-denial

Từ đồng nghĩa

• unnoticeable