What is unobtrusively? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of unobtrusively

unobtrusivelyadverb

/ˌʌnəbˈtruːsɪvli//ˌʌnəbˈtruːsɪvli/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "unobtrusively." It's a tricky one! Here's a breakdown with phonetic transcriptions and tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

/ʌnˈɒbt.rəˈlɪv.li/

2. Breakdown and Explanation:

  • un-: Pronounced like "uhn" – a short, unstressed "uh" sound. It's almost silent.
  • ob-: Pronounced like "ob" – as in "object."
  • trus-: This is the trickiest part! It sounds like "truh-suss." Think of the "truh" as a short “uh” sound and “suss” as in “fuss.”
  • -ively: Pronounced like "liv-ly" - "ly" as in "friendly."
  • -ly: Pronounced like "lee."

3. Putting it Together (Step-by-Step):

  1. un-: (uh)
  2. ob-: (ob)
  3. trus-: (truh-suss)
  4. -ively: (liv-ly)
  5. -ly: (lee)

Total: uh-ob-truh-suss-liv-lee

4. Tips for Pronunciation:

To help me tailor the explanation even further, could you tell me:

  • Are you struggling with a particular part of the word? (e.g., the "truh-suss" sound, or just the whole rhythm?)

Usage and examples with the word unobtrusively in English

Let's break down how to use "unobtrusively" effectively in English. It's a beautifully precise word, but it's often misused.

1. Meaning of "Unobtrusively"

"Unobtrusive" (the adjective it modifies) means:

  • Not attracting attention; not intrusive. It describes something that blends in, doesn't disrupt, and doesn’t draw focus to itself. It’s about being quiet, discreet, and respectful of others' space and peace.

2. How to Use "Unobtrusively" (as an adverb)

"Unobtrusively" is always used as an adverb. It modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb. Here’s how it functions:

  • Modifying a Verb: This is the most common usage. It describes how something is done.

    • Example: “She spoke unobtrusively, letting the others do most of the talking.” (She spoke quietly and low, not drawing attention to herself.)
    • Example: “The camera crew filmed unobtrusively, trying not to disturb the actors.” (They filmed discreetly, without disrupting the scene.)
    • Example: “He approached the elderly woman unobtrusively, offering his assistance.” (He approached gently, without being pushy.)

  • Modifying an Adjective: It intensifies the adjective describing something being discreet.

    • Example: “The museum displayed the artifacts unobtrusively, blending them seamlessly into the surrounding space.” (The display was very subtly done.)

3. Common Scenarios Where "Unobtrusively" Fits

  • Social Interactions: When someone is politely trying not to interfere or disrupt a conversation or situation.
  • Photography/Filming: When a filmmaker or photographer strives to capture a scene without altering it.
  • Advertising/Marketing: (Sometimes used critically) When advertising is too insistent or pushes itself upon the consumer. ("They were advertising unobtrusively on the radio, which was nice.")
  • Decorating/Design: Creating a space that’s aesthetically pleasing without being overwhelming.
  • Giving Advice/Help: Offering assistance in a way that doesn't feel like lecturing or imposing.

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings)

Here are some words you could use instead of "unobtrusively," depending on the nuance you want to convey:

  • Discreetly
  • Quietly
  • Subtly
  • Gently
  • Politely
  • Sparingly
  • Without intrusion
  • Without fanfare

5. Examples to Illustrate the Difference

  • Incorrect: "He approached her unobtrusively." (This is grammatically incorrect. You need the adverb form.)

  • Correct: “He approached her unobtrusively, offering her a glass of water.”

  • Incorrect: “The advertisement was unobtrusively displayed.”

  • Correct: “The advertisement was displayed unobtrusively, only appearing briefly on the screen.”

Resources for Further Learning:

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  • Give you more examples?
  • Help you write a sentence using "unobtrusively"?
  • Explain how it differs from similar words like "intrusive"?

Synonyms for the word unobtrusively

Practice with vocabulary unobtrusively

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The new security cameras were installed _____________ to avoid alarming employees, blending seamlessly with the office decor.
  2. The project manager requested that all critical updates be communicated _____________ to every team member, leaving no room for misunderstanding.
  3. During the sensitive negotiation, the mediator's role was to guide the discussion _____________, allowing both parties to feel heard without direct intervention.
  4. The company's mission statement was displayed _____________ in the lobby, ensuring it was the first thing visitors saw.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following describes how a minimalist design element might be integrated into a user interface, adding functionality without clutter? a) prominently b) overtly c) subtly d) unobtrusively e) conspicuously

  2. To ensure full comprehension and build trust, complex technical information should be shared with non-specialist stakeholders: a) opaquely b) cryptically c) transparently d) ambiguously

  3. When a team leader wants to provide support to a struggling team member without making them feel inadequate or overly scrutinized, the help should be offered: a) bluntly b) assertively c) indirectly d) unobtrusively

  4. A highly effective background process in a software application typically functions: a) visibly b) prominently c) conspicuously d) unobtrusively

  5. For critical data analysis that requires absolute precision, every step of the process must be performed: a) haphazardly b) meticulously c) carelessly d) perfunctorily

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The new software update integrated into the system without drawing attention to itself.
  2. The assistant director offered his support for the project in a way that didn't disturb the team's focus.
  3. She presented her innovative ideas very clearly and directly during the brainstorming session.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. unobtrusively
  2. clearly (or explicitly, transparently)
  3. unobtrusively
  4. prominently (or conspicuously)

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) subtly, d) unobtrusively
  2. c) transparently
  3. c) indirectly, d) unobtrusively
  4. d) unobtrusively
  5. b) meticulously

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The new software update integrated unobtrusively into the system.
  2. The assistant director unobtrusively offered his support for the project, ensuring the team's focus remained undisturbed.
  3. She presented her innovative ideas explicitly and directly during the brainstorming session.

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