How Do You Spell UNEMPHATIC?

Pronunciation: [ʌnɛmfˈatɪk] (IPA)

The word "unemphatic" is spelled with the prefix "un", meaning "not", and the root word "emphatic", meaning "expressing something forcibly and clearly". The IPA phonetic transcription for "unemphatic" is /ˌʌn.ɛmˈfæt.ɪk/, with the stress on the second syllable. The first syllable is pronounced with the short vowel sound /ʌ/, as in "up", and the second syllable with the long vowel sound /e/, as in "eight". The final syllable is pronounced with the short vowel sound /ɪ/, as in "bit".

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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UNEMPHATIC Meaning and Definition

  1. Unemphatic is an adjective used to describe the lack or absence of emphasis or emphasis that is subtle or subdued. It refers to something that is not forceful or impactful in expressing importance, significance, or stress. When used to describe a person's speech or mannerisms, unemphatic suggests a lack of intensity, conviction, or fervor in their delivery or gestures.

    In terms of language, an unemphatic statement is one that lacks emphasis or intensity, often resulting in a neutral or matter-of-fact tone. Such statements may lack the usual stress patterns or changes in pitch, making them less engaging or compelling to the listener.

    In a broader sense, unemphatic can refer to actions, objects, or situations that lack significance or impact. For example, an unemphatic response to a situation may imply indifference or disinterest. Similarly, unemphatic gestures or facial expressions may fail to convey strong emotions or intentions.

    Overall, the term unemphatic describes a lack of emphasis, intensity, or impact in various forms of communication, including speech, language, gestures, and non-verbal cues. It conveys a sense of understatement, neutrality, or minimalism, often resulting in a diminished effect on the listener or observer.

  2. Not characterised by emphasis or expressiveness.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for UNEMPHATIC

Etymology of UNEMPHATIC

The word "unemphatic" is formed by adding the prefix "un-" to the adjective "emphatic".

The term "emphatic" originates from the Greek word "emphatikos", which means "significant" or "forceful". It is derived from the verb "emphanō", meaning "to declare", "to manifest", or "to make known". The Greek term combines the prefix "en-" (meaning "in", "into", or "on") with the verb "phanō" (meaning "to appear" or "to show").

Over time, the word "emphatic" entered the English language in the early 17th century, adopted directly from Latin, where it had the same meaning.