Meaning of Word
Unsolicited refers to something that is given, offered, or received without being asked for, or something that is not requested or sought after.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Unsolicited means not asked for or not requested, often used to describe offers or advice given without invitation.
- Something that is unsolicited is not sought or wanted, particularly in the context of advice, opinions, or services.
- Unsolicited can also refer to information, goods, or communication that is sent or offered without any prior request.
History and Origin
The word unsolicited comes from the Latin sollicitare, meaning “to disturb or stir up,” which evolved into the English term to describe things that are “not stirred up” or “not requested.” The prefix “un-” is added to signify the opposite, meaning “not” or “without.” The term began appearing in English texts around the early 17th century to describe things that were given without a request, such as unsolicited advice or proposals.
Detailed Explanation
Unsolicited is often used to describe actions, items, or communication that are provided without any prior request or invitation. This term is commonly associated with things that are unwanted or intrusive, such as unsolicited emails (spam), unsolicited advice (advice given without being asked for), or unsolicited offers (such as marketing pitches or services). In many cases, unsolicited items or communications are considered unwelcome or intrusive, especially in professional settings.
For example, unsolicited job applications are those sent by candidates who have not been asked to apply, and unsolicited opinions are those expressed without a request from the listener.
In the context of communication, an unsolicited message, especially in digital forms, can be seen as spam or an unwelcome interruption.
Example Sentences
- She received an unsolicited email offering a loan that she did not request.
- The unsolicited advice from her colleague was not appreciated during the meeting.
- I was annoyed by the unsolicited calls from telemarketers.
- He sent me an unsolicited proposal for a project I wasn’t interested in.
- Unsolicited messages often clog up my inbox.
- The company took action against unsolicited marketing campaigns.
- He gave me unsolicited feedback on my presentation, even though I hadn’t asked for it.
- The unsolicited goods arrived at my door, even though I never ordered them.
- The unsolicited help from strangers made her feel uncomfortable.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Unwanted: Something that is not desired, often used in reference to unsolicited items or actions.
- Unasked-for: Refers to something that is given without a request, similar to unsolicited.
- Uninvited: Typically used to describe something or someone arriving without being invited, much like unsolicited offers or advice.
- Involuntary: Something given without intent or request, often seen in unsolicited actions.
- Intrusive: Refers to actions or things that disrupt or invade, often similar to unsolicited actions that are unwanted.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Spam: Unsolicited digital messages, usually emails, that are sent without request.
- Unwanted attention: Refers to attention that is given without being sought or asked for, similar to unsolicited interest.
- Junk mail: Unsolicited mail, often advertising, sent to recipients without their request.
- Pushy: Describes someone who is overly eager in offering unsolicited advice or services.
- Interruption: An unwelcome disturbance, similar to how unsolicited communication can interrupt a person.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Cold call: An unsolicited phone call made to someone, typically for sales or marketing.
- Unsolicited proposal: A business or project proposal submitted without a request from the recipient.
- Spam filter: A tool used to block unsolicited emails or messages.
- Telemarketing: The act of selling products or services over the phone, often involving unsolicited calls.
- Random outreach: Contact or communication made without invitation, much like unsolicited marketing or advice.
Antonyms
- Requested: Something that is asked for, the opposite of unsolicited.
- Solicited: Refers to something that is specifically asked for or invited, unlike unsolicited.
- Invited: Used when something is asked for or welcomed, as opposed to unsolicited items or actions.
- Desired: Something that is wanted or sought after, in contrast to unsolicited.
- Planned: Refers to something that is arranged or requested, opposite of unsolicited which is unplanned.