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unsavory

adjective

/ʌnˈseɪv(ə)ri/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of unsavory

Distasteful, unpleasant, or morally objectionable in nature.
"The neighborhood had an unsavory reputation for crime and poverty."

Detailed meaning of unsavory

When something is referred to as unsavory, it implies a lack of appeal, decency, or acceptability, often associated with behaviors, situations, or individuals that are untrustworthy, disreputable, or objectionable. Unsavory characters, for example, might engage in deceitful or unethical activities, while unsavory situations can involve discomfort, conflict, or unsuitable conditions. This term is commonly used to convey a sense of unease or aversion, highlighting the unpalatable or undesirable aspects of the subject matter. Discussions involving the term "unsavory" often center around issues of ethics, personal judgment, or the need to address and rectify problematic situations or behaviors.

Example sentences containing unsavory

1. The politician was involved in unsavory business dealings.
2. The restaurant had a reputation for serving unsavory food.
3. The news report uncovered some unsavory details about the company's practices.
4. The comedian's jokes were filled with unsavory humor that offended some audience members.
5. The horror movie had many unsavory scenes that made viewers uncomfortable.
6. The art exhibit featured some unsavory pieces that some found offensive.

History and etymology of unsavory

The adjective 'unsavory' has an etymology that connects it to the realm of taste and morality. It derives from the combination of two Old French words: 'un,' meaning 'not,' and 'savoureux,' meaning 'tasty' or 'flavorful.' Originally, 'unsavory' was used to describe things that lacked a pleasing taste or flavor. However, over time, its meaning expanded to encompass not only distasteful or unpleasant things but also those that were morally objectionable in nature. This evolution reflects the notion that something morally objectionable can be as unpalatable to one's moral sensibilities as an unpleasant taste is to the palate. Thus, the etymology of 'unsavory' underscores the connection between taste and morality in describing things that are distasteful or morally questionable.

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Further usage examples of unsavory

1. The book contained some unsavory characters and controversial themes.
2. The gossip column was known for spreading unsavory rumors and speculation.
3. The investigation uncovered unsavory evidence that led to an arrest.
4. The business was involved in unsavory tactics to gain an advantage over competitors.
5. The online forum was filled with unsavory comments and hateful speech.
6. The unsavory rumors about his past haunted his reputation.
7. Her unsavory behavior at the party left a lasting negative impression.
8. The movie's unsavory characters made it a gritty and intense thriller.
9. The unsavory smell emanating from the dumpster was unbearable.
10. I couldn't stand the unsavory taste of the expired milk.
11. The unsavory truth behind the scandal was finally exposed.
12. His unsavory remarks offended everyone in the room.
13. She found herself in an unsavory situation with no way out.
14. The unsavory details of the crime shocked the community.
15. The unsavory tactics used by the company in the lawsuit were unethical.
16. The restaurant's unsavory hygiene practices led to health code violations.
17. His unsavory past made it difficult for him to find a job.
18. The unsavory characters in the novel added depth to the story.
19. The unsavory deal was hidden behind a façade of legitimacy.
20. The unsavory smell of the polluted river hung in the air.
21. He had to disassociate himself from the unsavory crowd he used to hang out with.
22. The unsavory truth about the politician's corruption was exposed by the media.
23. The unsavory taste of the medicine made it hard to swallow.
24. She avoided the unsavory part of town after dark.
25. The unsavory characters in the movie kept viewers on the edge of their seats.
26. His unsavory remarks about his colleagues created tension at work.
27. The unsavory reputation of the nightclub deterred many potential patrons.
28. The unsavory scent of the landfill polluted the surrounding area.
29. She distanced herself from the unsavory individuals who led her astray.
30. The unsavory practices of the company led to its downfall.