What is unlike? Pronunciation and usage in English

unlike means . Learn how to pronounce and use unlike through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of unlike

unlikepreposition

/ʌnˈlʌɪk/
Definition & pronunciation of unlike

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "unlike." It's a tricky one for some! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ʌnˈlaɪk/ (rhymes with "unk-like")

Let's break that down further:

  • ʌn – This is a short "uh" sound, like in "under" or "sun." It's a relaxed, unstressed sound.
  • ˈlaɪk – This is where it gets a bit tricky. It’s pronounced with a stressed syllable (indicated by the 'ˈ').
    • la – said like the letter “L”
    • ɪk – This is a short "i" sound, like in "pig" or "sit."

Here's a phonetic transcription (closer to the sound):

IPA: /ʌnˈlaɪk/

Tips for saying it correctly:

  • Don't say "un-like" like a single word. It’s two separate syllables.
  • Focus on the short "uh" sound at the beginning.
  • Really emphasize the "like" part with the stressed syllable. It should be a bit louder and longer than the "uh" part.

Resources to hear it:

Do you want me to:

  • Say it aloud?
  • Give you an example sentence using "unlike"?

Usage and examples with the word unlike in English

Let's break down how to use the word "unlike" effectively in English. It's a versatile word that's often confused with "different from," but it has a slightly different nuance.

1. Basic Usage - Highlighting Contrast

The most common use of "unlike" is to emphasize a contrast or difference between two things. It's similar to "different from" but often feels a little more direct and pointed.

  • Example: "Unlike her sister, Sarah is a quiet and introverted person." (Here, you're showing a clear contrast between Sarah and her sister.)
  • Example: "Unlike the previous model, this one is much more energy-efficient." (Comparing the features and highlighting a key difference.)
  • Example: "Unlike a traditional museum, this one focuses on interactive exhibits."

2. "Unlike" + a Clause (Most Common)

This is the most frequent and best way to use "unlike." You use it with a clause following the word. The clause explains what is being compared.

  • Structure: "Unlike + [clause expressing the comparison]"
  • Example: "Unlike the way he behaved yesterday, he was incredibly polite today." (The clause “the way he behaved yesterday” explains what’s being compared to his current behavior.)
  • Example: "Unlike anything I’ve ever seen before, this artwork is truly bizarre." (The clause “anything I’ve ever seen before” specifies the category of things being compared.)

3. "Unlike" + a Noun (Less Common, More Specific)

You can use "unlike" directly before a noun, but this is less frequently used and often feels a bit clunky. It's best when you’re explicitly stating what's being compared.

  • Example: "Unlike a diamond, emeralds are known for their vibrant green color." (You’re comparing emeralds to diamonds based on color.)
  • Example: "Unlike steel, aluminum is lightweight and corrosion-resistant." (Comparing on properties.)

4. "Unlike" as a Negative Qualifier (Similar to "not")

Sometimes, "unlike" can function almost like a negative qualifier, expressing a lack of something.

  • Example: "Unlike many other politicians, he is genuinely interested in the needs of his constituents." (Here, “unlike many” suggests a contrast – he’s not a typical politician).

Key Differences between "Unlike" and "Different From"

While often interchangeable, "unlike" often implies a stronger, more deliberate contrast. "Different from" can be more neutral.

  • "Different from" is a general statement of difference.
  • "Unlike" highlights a specific contrast and can create a more impactful comparison.

Tips for Using "Unlike" Effectively:

  • Clarity is key: Make sure the clause following "unlike" clearly identifies what you're contrasting.
  • Don’t overuse it: While useful, too much “unlike” can make your writing sound repetitive.
  • Consider synonyms: Sometimes “different from” or “in contrast to” might be a better fit, depending on the context.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of writing are you doing? (e.g., essays, emails, creative writing, etc.)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you’re struggling with?

Synonyms for the word unlike

Practice with vocabulary unlike

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The company's innovative marketing campaign was successful, ______ previous attempts that had focused primarily on print media.
  2. This quarter's financial performance showed a slight downturn, ______ the optimistic projections made earlier in the year.
  3. ______ their best efforts, the team could not finalize the proposal before the extended deadline.
  4. The board approved the new budget; ______, they expressed concerns about the long-term sustainability of some proposed expenditures.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. ______ its main competitor, our new software offers a fully customizable user interface, significantly enhancing user experience. a) Similar to b) Unlike c) Because of d) Due to

  2. The regulatory framework proposed by the committee, ______ the existing guidelines, emphasizes transparency and accountability. a) unlike b) in contrast to c) despite d) with regard to

  3. The project's outcomes, ______ the initial hypotheses, suggested that market demand for the product was considerably lower than anticipated. a) contrary to b) in line with c) similar to d) consistent with

  4. The CEO acknowledged the challenges ahead; ______, she expressed confidence in the team's ability to navigate them successfully. a) therefore b) however c) moreover d) consequently

  5. The department comprises individuals with ______ skill sets, fostering a dynamic and innovative work environment. a) uniform b) identical c) diverse d) homogeneous

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original sentence: The latest market analysis presents findings that are completely different from the preliminary assessment. Rewrite using "unlike" or a related word form:

  2. Original sentence: Her leadership style did not resemble the traditional autocratic approach often seen in the industry. Rewrite using "unlike" or a related word form:

  3. Original sentence: Even though the project faced numerous technical difficulties, it was still delivered on schedule. Rewrite without using "unlike", but using a suitable replacement word:

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. unlike
  2. unlike
  3. Despite
  4. nevertheless (or however)

Exercise 2:

  1. b) Unlike
  2. a) unlike, b) in contrast to
  3. a) contrary to
  4. b) however
  5. c) diverse

Exercise 3:

  1. Rewrite using "unlike": The latest market analysis presents findings unlike the preliminary assessment.
  2. Rewrite using "unlike": Her leadership style was unlike the traditional autocratic approach often seen in the industry.
  3. Rewrite without using "unlike": Despite numerous technical difficulties, the project was still delivered on schedule. (Other acceptable answers include: Although the project faced numerous technical difficulties, it was still delivered on schedule.)

Comment ()