Unsolicited
un-suh-LIS-i-tid
/ˌʌnsəˈlɪsɪtɪd/
Not requested or asked for; given or offered without being asked.
Often implies that the item or advice was unwanted or unwelcome, even if well-intentioned. It emphasizes the lack of invitation or permission.
The story behind the word. The word 'unsolicited' combines the negative prefix 'un-' with 'solicited.' 'Solicited' comes from the Latin 'sollicitare,' meaning 'to disturb, rouse, or urge.' This root implies an active effort to seek or ask for something. Therefore, 'unsolicited' means something that was not sought or asked for, often implying it was unwanted or intrusive.
Word relationships
- unrequested: Direct synonym, but 'unsolicited' often carries a stronger sense of being unwelcome.
- uninvited: Specifically refers to not being asked to attend an event or enter a place.
- spontaneous: Happening without external cause or premeditation, can be positive.
- requested: Asked for.
- invited: Asked to come or participate.
Word family
- solicit (v): To ask for or try to obtain (something) from someone.
- solicitation (n): The act of soliciting.
Collocations
- unsolicited advice
- unsolicited email
- unsolicited calls
- unsolicited comments
Example sentences
- "He was tired of receiving unsolicited advice from his relatives about his career choices." About advice.
- "Many people find unsolicited emails, often called spam, to be a major nuisance." About marketing.
- "The author received an unsolicited manuscript from an aspiring writer, hoping for feedback." About a gift.
Memory hook
If something is 'UN-SOLICITED,' it's 'UN-SOUGHT' and not 'ASKED' for, like spam mail you didn't 'SOLICIT'. UN-SOUGHT, not ASKED
When not to use
Do not use for something that was genuinely requested or for something that is simply offered and accepted without prior request but also without negative connotation.
Fun facts
- The term 'unsolicited commercial email' is the formal name for what is commonly known as spam.
- In publishing, 'unsolicited manuscripts' are those sent to agents or publishers without prior invitation, often facing low chances of acceptance.
Explore more words
intrusive, unauthorized, untouched, unforeseen, intrude, unilateral
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