unkindly

Everyday

Unkindly means in a way that is not kind, not caring or a bit cruel. tree →

In the lessons

In stories and lessons about friendship and behaviour: «speak unkindly», «treat someone unkindly». It tells the reader a character is mean or hurtful. Phrase: «don't take it unkindly» means don't be offended.

Examples

• He spoke unkindly to his little sister. tree →
• Please don't treat animals unkindly. tree →
• The other children laughed unkindly. tree →
• She looked at me unkindly. tree →
• Don't take it unkindly, but your shoes are on the wrong feet. tree →
• Our class rule is never to talk unkindly about others. tree →
• Are you ill? or have they treated you unkindly?’ tree →

Note

Adjective: unkind; noun: unkindness. Opposite: kindly. «Unkindly» can also, rarely, be an adjective (old use), but today it is mostly an adverb.