unmanly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unmanly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe behavior or characteristics that are traditionally considered not masculine or lacking in qualities associated with manliness. Example: "He was criticized for showing emotions, as some deemed it unmanly to express vulnerability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(See: her reaction to Sean "No Sex Before Marriage" Lowe dumping her after the Fantasy Suite; her confronting Sean during "The Women Tell All" for his season saying he was "unmanly" for not checking on her after breaking up with her).

The Guardian - TV & Radio

And, incidentally, it explains France's eagerness to see off others whom it considers to be encroaching on its domain, notably the British, whose first attempts to join the European common market were vetoed by de Gaulle.Moreover, defying the might of America is a form of muscular self-affirmation, to be contrasted with the unmanly British tendency to jump when American fingers click.

The Economist

Many have a puritan streak: letting other people grow your food and chop down trees for you is somehow unmanly.

The Economist

It was revived last weekend by a venomous attack on Mr Blair by Ken Follett, a writer of airport novels who raised big money for Labour but claims now to be disgusted by the prime minister's "unmanly" use of spin doctors to spread bile about fellow ministers.

The Economist

"People think it's unmanly unless they've made it themselves".The only worry for these lone rangers is the law.

The Economist

What should I do?Do I fly my now bony and unmanly self to Sweden, which has the lowest income inequality, to find a mate?

The Economist

Led by F.W. Campbell of Blackheath, the rugby men refused to budge over hacking, calling those against the practice "unmanly".

Encyclopedia Britannica

You don't want to be perceived as unmanly".

Independent

Vanity is frowned upon and lavish grooming is generally deemed to be superficial or unmanly.

Independent

"Men have discovered that a lot of things that would have been considered really unmanly are actually really exciting," says Hilton.

Independent

Being brutalized frees Edmond to pursue his own bloodlust; he comes to feel that politeness is for chumps and violence is justifiable — just as John, the professor accused of sexual harassment in Mamet's 1992 piece "Oleanna," learns that brute force might even be what his tormentor is looking for, in place of all that unmanly talking and thinking.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unmanly", consider the specific context and whether a more precise term like "cowardly" or "effeminate" might be more appropriate to convey your intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "unmanly" as a blanket insult. Recognize that traditional notions of masculinity can be limiting and that diverse expressions of gender are valid. Focus instead on specific behaviors you want to address.

Linguistic Context

The word "unmanly" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe something as lacking traditionally masculine qualities. Ludwig examples show it used to describe behaviors, appearances, or characteristics considered not befitting a man, according to conventional gender roles. Ludwig AI confirms its standard grammatical usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Encyclopedias

6%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

1%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "unmanly", as evidenced by Ludwig, functions primarily as an adjective used to critique deviations from traditional masculinity. While grammatically correct, its usage can be loaded with negative connotations, potentially perpetuating harmful stereotypes. As Ludwig AI confirms, the word is generally acceptable, but consider the implications before using it. Its frequency in News & Media sources highlights its relevance in discussions around gender and societal expectations, though more precise and less judgmental language is often preferable in formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Unmanful

A synonym for "unmanly", directly implying a lack of qualities expected of a man.

Unmasculine

Directly indicates the absence of masculine characteristics.

Effeminate

Suggests traits, mannerisms, or appearances traditionally associated with women.

Weak

A general term for lacking strength or resilience, often seen as the opposite of manly strength.

Cowardly

Highlights a lack of courage, often considered a key aspect of manliness.

Pusillanimous

Indicates a lack of courage and resolution; fainthearted.

Timid

Emphasizes a lack of boldness or assertiveness, qualities often associated with masculinity.

Poor-spirited

Suggests a lack of vigor, enthusiasm, or courage, often considered unmanly.

Feeble

Implies weakness, both physically and in character, contrasting with masculine strength.

Unheroic

Suggests a failure to display bravery or noble qualities traditionally expected of men.

FAQs

How can I use "unmanly" in a sentence?

You can use "unmanly" to describe behavior or characteristics considered not traditionally masculine. For example: "Some considered his sensitivity "unmanly"."

What are some alternatives to saying "unmanly"?

Alternatives include "effeminate", "cowardly", or "unmasculine", depending on the specific connotation you intend to convey.

Is it offensive to describe someone as "unmanly"?

Yes, describing someone as "unmanly" can be offensive because it reinforces traditional and potentially harmful stereotypes about masculinity. Consider using more specific and less judgmental language.

What does it mean to describe something as "unmanly"?

To describe something as "unmanly" means it lacks qualities traditionally associated with men, such as courage, strength, or stoicism. This term often carries negative connotations, implying weakness or inferiority.