"Un manlier" is a compound word made up of the prefix "un-", meaning "not," and the adjective "manlier," meaning "more manly." The spelling of "un manlier" follows typical English spelling rules, with the prefix "un-" being added to the base word "manly" to indicate its negative form. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced [ʌn ˈmænliə], with stress on the second syllable of "manlier."
"Unmanlier" is the comparative form of the adjective "unmanly." It refers to a state or quality that deviates from commonly associated masculine characteristics or traits.
The term "unmanly" typically encompasses a range of conceptualizations associated with traditional notions of masculinity, such as courage, strength, assertiveness, and emotional resilience. However, "unmanlier" signifies a further departure from these conventional attributes. It denotes a state that is even less masculine or exhibiting less manly characteristics than what is considered typical or expected within a given society or cultural context.
The term is often used to describe behaviors, attitudes, or traits that are perceived as weak, effeminate, timid, or lacking in masculine vigor or energy. This may include qualities such as being overly emotional, overly reliant on others, lacking in physical prowess, or exhibiting submissive or passive behaviors that deviate from the perceived cultural norm of manliness.
Although the term 'unmanlier' tends to carry a negative connotation, it is important to recognize that masculinity is a socially constructed concept that varies across cultures and time periods. What may be considered unmanly in one context may be valued or celebrated in another. Therefore, it is crucial to approach this term with awareness and understanding, as societal expectations of masculinity are subject to change and diverse interpretations.
The word unmanlier can be broken down into two parts: un- and manlier.
Un- is a prefix commonly used in English, meaning not or the opposite of. It is derived from Old English and has retained its meaning over the years.
Manlier is the comparative form of the adjective manly. The word manly comes from the Middle English word mannlich which meant fit for a man or belonging to a man. It originated from the Old English word mannlic which meant human or manlike.
Therefore, the etymology of unmanlier can be understood as the combination of un- and manlier, which ultimately conveys the opposite of what is considered manly or fit for a man.