unsigned

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unsigned" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where something is not signed, such as documents, letters, or software code. Example: "The contract remains unsigned, which means it is not yet legally binding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It uses the internet to obtain editorial feedback from a large number of volunteers in order to help executives decide which manuscripts should become books.Media Predict hopes to do this using a virtual stockmarket for unpublished books, unsigned music acts and proposed television shows.

The Economist

FIRST came unsigned leaflets claiming that the candidate for the Egyptian Bloc, a secularist group, was a communist atheist.

The Economist

Virtually all articles in The Economist are unsigned, and reviewers' pick of the year's finest books are similarly anonymous.

The Economist

I asked the woman working at the laptop who was advancing these demands; the card-paper sheet was unsigned".Sorry, what demands?" she asked.

The Economist

Leaders are often unsigned in newspapers, but everywhere else there has been rampant byline inflation (to the extent that some papers run picture bylines on ordinary news stories).

The Economist

But two key parts of it were left unsigned when Prime Minister Najib Mikati and his cabinet resigned in March this year.

The Economist

He left all his work unsigned except one: a beheading of John the Baptist in which he wrote his name in the blood spurting from the saint's neck (not the painting of Salome with the head shown above).

The Economist

The Arabian Gulf's three "superconnectors"—Emirates, Etihad and Qatar are unsigned, but are growing so quickly that they see little need for allies.

The Economist

His work was unsigned or written under such pen names as Mr. Michael Angelo Titmarsh, Fitz-Boodle, The Fat Contributor, or Ikey Solomons.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Scholars may be ignorant of the development of the Baroque there, however, both because many works are unsigned or otherwise poorly attributed and because earthquakes (such as the one that damaged Cuzco in 1650) destroyed the work of early Baroque artists.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The plates in the Guide are unsigned, but 10 designs signed "Hepplewhite" or "Heppelwhite" are included in the Cabinet-Maker's London Book of Prices (1788).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to legal or official documents, use "unsigned" to clearly indicate that the document has not been formally validated with a signature.

Common error

While both phrases mean the absence of a signature, "unsigned" is more concise and commonly used in formal writing. "Not signed" is acceptable but can sound less professional.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "unsigned" is as an adjective. It modifies a noun to indicate the absence of a signature. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples, showing its application across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

35%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unsigned" functions as an adjective denoting the absence of a signature, conveying incompleteness or lack of authorization. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, from news and encyclopedias to the music industry. Its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication. While "not signed" can be used, "unsigned" is generally preferred for its conciseness. By understanding the nuances of its usage, you can effectively and accurately communicate the status of documents, agreements, or artistic works lacking a signature.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not signed

A direct synonym indicating the absence of a signature.

without signature

Similar to 'not signed' but emphasizes the lack of a signature.

unendorsed

Implies the lack of official approval or support.

unratified

Specifically refers to agreements or treaties that have not been formally approved.

not countersigned

Indicates the absence of a second signature required for validation.

without endorsement

Highlights the lack of support or approval.

anonymous

Suggests that the origin or author is unknown or unrevealed.

unaccredited

Refers to a lack of official recognition or certification.

independent artist

In the context of music, it indicates artists who are not signed to any label.

unaffiliated

Implies not being formally connected or associated with an organization.

FAQs

How to use "unsigned" in a sentence?

Use "unsigned" to describe documents, agreements, or artwork that lack a signature, such as, "The "unsigned contract" was not legally binding."

What can I say instead of "unsigned"?

Alternatives include "not signed", "without signature", or "unendorsed", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "unsigned" or "not signed"?

"Unsigned" is generally preferred for its conciseness and formality, especially in professional or legal contexts. Both "unsigned" and "not signed" are grammatically correct, but "unsigned" is more direct.

What does "unsigned artist" mean?

An "unsigned artist" refers to a musician or band that is not currently under contract with a record label. They are independent and manage their own music production and promotion until they get a label deal.