How Do You Spell UNAWARES?

Pronunciation: [ˌʌnəwˈe͡əz] (IPA)

The word "unawares" is spelled with the unique combination of "un-" as a prefix that means "not" and "-awares" as a suffix that means "aware." The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ʌn-əˈwɛərz/, with the primary stress on the second syllable. The "a" letter in "-awares" is pronounced as a short "ə" sound, and the "e" letter in the last syllable is pronounced as an "ɛ" sound. "Unawares" is often used to describe an unexpected or sudden event or occurrence.

Meaning and Definition
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UNAWARES Meaning and Definition

  1. Unawares is an adverb that describes a state of being unaware or uninformed about something, usually unexpected or sudden. It suggests a lack of consciousness or realization regarding a particular situation, event, or action. When someone is caught unawares, they are caught off guard or surprised due to their lack of knowledge or preparation.

    The word unawares can also imply a lack of intention or purpose. If someone does something unawares, they do it without being conscious of or intentionally planning to do so. This could refer to an unintentional action or a consequence that occurs without deliberate forethought.

    Furthermore, unawares can describe an action or situation that happens without being noticed or perceived by others. It implies a certain stealthiness or inconspicuousness. For example, a person could make their way through a crowded room unawares, without attracting attention or being observed by others.

    In summary, unawares is an adverb that conveys a lack of awareness, intentionality, or perception. It often denotes surprise, unexpectedness, or an action occurring without the individual's conscious knowledge or intention.

  2. Suddenly; unexpectedly.

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

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Etymology of UNAWARES

The word unawares is derived from the combination of two Old English words: un, meaning not, and awares, which comes from the Middle English word awerien, meaning to become aware of or to perceive. Over time, the word evolved into unawares, which means in a state of unawareness or without prior knowledge or warning.

Idioms with the word UNAWARES

  • catch/take somebody unawares The idiom "catch/take somebody unawares" means to surprise or take someone by surprise, often when they are not expecting it or are not prepared for something.
  • caught unawares The idiom "caught unawares" means to be taken by surprise or to be caught off guard, usually in a situation where one is not prepared or expecting something to happen. It suggests that the person was not ready to respond or react to the unexpected event or circumstance.

Similar spelling words for UNAWARES