unkempt

/'ʌn'kempt/

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Sure! Let's break down the word "unkempt."

Definition:

Unkempt is an adjective that describes something that is not well cared for or not tidy. It often refers to appearances, such as hair or clothing, but can also describe places like gardens or rooms.

Usage Instructions:

When you use "unkempt," you usually describe something or someone that looks messy or disorganized. It's often used in a negative context to imply that something should be tidier or better cared for.

Examples:

1. Appearance: "After a long hike, his hair was wild and unkempt."
2. Garden: "The backyard was filled with weeds, and the flowers looked unkempt."
3. Clothing: "She wore an unkempt outfit that didn’t match."

Advanced Usage:

You can use "unkempt" in more complex sentences to express feelings or observations. For example: - "Despite his unkempt appearance, he had a charming personality that drew people to him." - "The once beautiful park had become unkempt over the years, losing its appeal."

Word Variants:

• Noun Form: "unkemptness" (the quality of being unkempt)
  • Example: "The unkemptness of the old house made it seem abandoned."
• Adverb Form: "unkemptly" (in an unkempt manner)
  • Example: "He dressed unkemptly for the formal event, which surprised everyone."

Different Meaning:

While "unkempt" primarily refers to being messy or not well-groomed, it can also metaphorically describe ideas or conditions that are unorganized or chaotic. For example, "The report was unkempt, lacking clarity and structure."

Synonyms:

Here are some words that have similar meanings to "unkempt": - Messy - Disheveled - Untidy - Chaotic - Scruffy

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs that use "unkempt," you might encounter phrases that describe similar concepts: - "In disarray" (meaning messy or not organized) - "Out of sorts" (can imply a lack of tidiness in a person's appearance or mood)

Summary:

In summary, "unkempt" is used to describe something that looks messy or is not well cared for. You can use it for appearances, places, and even metaphorically for ideas.

Academic

Adjective

1. not properly maintained or cared for
   • an unkempt garden
   • native vistas and unkempt rambling paths
   • an ukempt appearance
2. not neatly combed
   • wild unkempt hair