How Do You Spell UNEXPRESSIVE?

Pronunciation: [ˌʌnɛkspɹˈɛsɪv] (IPA)

The word "unexpressive" means lacking in emotion or feeling. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /ʌnɪkˈsprɛsɪv/. The first syllable is pronounced as "un" with a schwa sound, followed by "ik" with a short i sound. The stress is on the second syllable, which is spelled "spr" as in "spring" followed by "es" with a short e sound, and "iv" with a short i sound. With this transcription, it's easy to see and understand the correct spelling of this word.

UNEXPRESSIVE Meaning and Definition

  1. Unexpressive is an adjective that describes someone or something that lacks or fails to display emotions, feelings, or thoughts in a noticeable or discernible manner. It refers to a lack of adequate or effective communication or conveyance of one's inner sentiments or intentions outwardly.

    When applied to a person, an unexpressive individual typically exhibits a minimal range of facial expressions, gestures, or body language that would normally accompany emotions or thoughts. Their lack of expressiveness can make it challenging for others to discern their true feelings, making it difficult to gauge their reactions or understand their perspectives in different situations. An unexpressive person may appear unresponsive, detached, or indifferent, giving the impression of being emotionally distant or cold.

    In regard to artistic works, such as paintings or sculptures, unexpressive refers to a lack of conveying deep emotions or meaningful messages through the artwork. The absence of emotions or impactful content can make the piece appear dull, lacking in resonance or significance.

    Overall, unexpressive signifies a deficiency in effectively communicating or showcasing emotions, feelings, or profound thoughts either through non-verbal cues or artistic creations. It suggests a limited ability to outwardly demonstrate inner states, leaving others uncertain of what lies beneath the surface.

  2. Not representing with force; not emphatic.

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

Common Misspellings for UNEXPRESSIVE

  • 7nexpressive
  • ubexpressive
  • umexpressive
  • ujexpressive
  • uhexpressive
  • unwxpressive
  • unsxpressive
  • undxpressive
  • unrxpressive
  • un4xpressive
  • un3xpressive
  • unezpressive
  • unecpressive
  • unedpressive
  • unespressive
  • unexoressive
  • unexlressive
  • unex-ressive
  • unex0ressive

Etymology of UNEXPRESSIVE

The word "unexpressive" is formed by adding the negative prefix "un-" to the word "expressive".

The term "expressive" comes from the verb "express", which originated from the Latin word "exprimere" meaning "to press out" or "to squeeze out". It is formed by combining the prefix "ex-" (out) and the verb "primere" (to press). Over time, the term "express" expanded in meaning to include conveying or communicating thoughts, emotions, or ideas.

By adding the negation prefix "un-" to "expressive", the word "unexpressive" is formed, conveying the opposite meaning of being unable to express or lacking in expression.

Similar spelling words for UNEXPRESSIVE