Unpresentably

Adverb describing a state or manner that is not suitable or appropriate for being presented or shown, typically due to being unkempt, disheveled, or otherwise lacking in a respectable appearance or condition. This encompasses physical appearance, such as clothing or personal grooming, as well as the state of something itself, such as a room or item. It implies a disregard for social norms regarding acceptable presentation, leading to a negative impression or social exclusion. Often associated with situations where a degree of decorum or formality is expected but not met.

Unpresentably meaning with examples

• Despite having a crucial business meeting, the interviewee arrived unpresentably, his tie askew and his suit stained with coffee. The potential employer was immediately put off by his appearance, wondering if the interviewee's lack of attention to detail extended to his work ethic. Consequently, the candidate's lack of presentation affected his opportunities of being hired. His negligence caused significant harm for this chance.
• The artist's studio, usually a chaotic but creative space, became unpresentably messy after the recent art fair. Paint splatters covered the floor, canvases leaned precariously against each other, and the air was thick with the smell of turpentine. It became difficult to focus on finishing their next project without cleaning up the mess. Thus, the space no longer inspired creative endeavors.
• After the hurricane, the coastal town was left unpresentably damaged. Buildings were partially collapsed, debris littered the streets, and infrastructure was destroyed. Many residents became homeless because their houses were damaged. Any efforts to assist or offer refuge were immediately hampered, because the circumstances were dire. The devastation left very few opportunities.
• The aging heirloom, meant for a museum exhibition, was found to be unpresentably tarnished. Years of neglect and improper storage had left the silver candlesticks covered in tarnish. Now, the team was facing the problem of restoring them before the exhibition. The items' lack of appeal was a huge burden that needed to be addressed immediately, if they hoped to find value.
• The neglected garden became unpresentably overgrown during the owners' long absence. Weeds choked the flowerbeds, bushes blocked the walkways, and the lawn resembled a jungle. The property was not safe to walk through because the garden was in poor condition. The garden's neglected state was a serious detraction from an otherwise beautiful home and also a safety risk.