Untaken

The adjective 'untaken' describes something that has not been selected, chosen, used, or acquired; something that remains available or unclaimed. It signifies a state of remaining in reserve or being neglected, or yet to be acted upon. It implies the absence of previous selection or engagement. The implication often carries the connotation of being potentially available for future engagement, either by individuals or by circumstances. It also refers to the ability to be done. Its meaning is one of potential, whether opportunity, responsibility, or action, unfulfilled but possible.

Untaken meaning with examples

• The photograph album sat on the shelf, its pages mostly blank, a testament to opportunities untaken. Sarah regretted not applying for the scholarship; her potential, for now, remained untaken. Despite the tempting opportunity, the project proposal sat untaken, awaiting a decision.
• The prize, a luxurious trip to the Maldives, was untaken, generating much suspense as no one won in the game. The chance to interview for the dream job went untaken because of a prior family engagement. The detective's investigation was in shambles; a major piece of evidence remained untaken.
• The responsibilities in the project, however, remained untaken as everyone was too eager to work on the glamorous parts. In a world of fast fashion, the impact of slow consumption decisions is an untaken opportunity to reduce environmental impact. The road to a better future is paved with the choices we make; many paths remain untaken.
• Many tickets to the sold-out concert went untaken as there was a heavy blizzard. The responsibility of caring for the elderly parent, for instance, can be an untaken option due to conflicting desires. The proposal for the new initiative sat untaken for weeks due to the manager's lack of interest, and was eventually rejected.