unhappy
A state of feeling sad, miserable, or not satisfied with a situation. It is commonly used to describe someone who is experiencing emotional pain or disappointment.
Examples
3 of 5The child was unhappy because he lost his favorite toy.
The boy felt sad because his toy was missing.
The committee was unhappy with the proposed changes to the policy.
The group did not like the new rules that were suggested.
I'm really unhappy about how the party turned out.
I am disappointed with the result of the party.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Remember that 'un-' means 'not'. So 'unhappy' is simply 'not happy'. Think of an 'unhappy' face as a 'happy' face turned upside down.
Quick Quiz
She was very ______ when she failed her driving test.
Correct!
The correct answer is: unhappy
Examples
The child was unhappy because he lost his favorite toy.
everydayThe boy felt sad because his toy was missing.
The committee was unhappy with the proposed changes to the policy.
formalThe group did not like the new rules that were suggested.
I'm really unhappy about how the party turned out.
informalI am disappointed with the result of the party.
Research indicates that workers are unhappy when they lack autonomy.
academicStudies show that employees feel bad when they cannot make their own choices.
Our clients are unhappy with the delay in the shipping process.
businessThe customers are not pleased that the delivery is late.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
an unhappy accident
a mistake that has bad results
an unhappy coincidence
two bad things happening at the same time by chance
make someone unhappy
to cause someone to feel sad
Often Confused With
Unhappy refers to sadness or dissatisfaction, while angry refers to strong feelings of displeasure or hostility.
Unhappy is an emotional pain, whereas bored is a lack of interest in one's current activity.
Usage Notes
The word 'unhappy' is very versatile and can describe a temporary mood or a long-term state of being. It is often followed by the prepositions 'about' or 'with'.
Common Mistakes
Learners often forget that 'unhappy' is an adjective and try to use it as a noun; for example, saying 'He has much unhappy' instead of 'He has much unhappiness'.
Memory Tip
Remember that 'un-' means 'not'. So 'unhappy' is simply 'not happy'. Think of an 'unhappy' face as a 'happy' face turned upside down.
Word Origin
From the Middle English prefix 'un-' (meaning not) combined with 'happy' (originally meaning lucky or fortunate, from 'hap' or luck).
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many English-speaking cultures, being 'unhappy' with a service is a common justification for asking for a refund or a manager.
Quick Quiz
She was very ______ when she failed her driving test.
Correct!
The correct answer is: unhappy
Related Grammar Rules
More Emotions words
joy
A1A deep feeling of great happiness and pleasure. It is used to describe an intense emotion or something that causes this feeling.
pleased
A1To feel or show satisfaction and happiness about a specific event, situation, or result. It is commonly used to describe a person's positive emotional state when their expectations are met or exceeded.
content
A1A feeling of being happy and satisfied with what you have or your current situation. It describes a state of peace where you do not feel the need for anything more.
eager
A1Eager describes a person who has a strong desire to do something or is very excited about something that will happen. It suggests a positive, energetic readiness and a keen interest in a particular activity.
confident
A1To be confident means feeling sure about your own abilities or that something will happen as you expect. It describes a person who believes in themselves and does not feel nervous or shy in front of others.
proud
A1Proud describes the feeling of deep pleasure or satisfaction as a result of one's own achievements or the achievements of those one is associated with. It is often used to express honor or high self-esteem regarding a specific quality or action.
relieved
A1Feeling happy and relaxed because something difficult or unpleasant has stopped or did not happen. It describes the sense of comfort you feel when a worry goes away.
cherish
A1To love someone or something very much and want to protect them. It also means to keep a happy memory or a feeling in your heart for a long time.
admire
A1To look at someone or something and feel respect or approval. It is used when you think someone is very good, or when you think something is beautiful to look at.
tender
A1A gentle and kind feeling or quality shown toward others. It describes a soft emotional state where someone is caring, affectionate, and easily moved by love or sympathy.
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