Untoward

Untoward describes something that is unexpected, unfavorable, or difficult to manage. It suggests a situation or event that is inconvenient, problematic, or even slightly unpleasant, often disrupting the expected course of things. It can also refer to behavior or circumstances that are inappropriate or improper, veering off the path of what is considered normal or acceptable. This word emphasizes the negativity of a situation, highlighting the difficulties or drawbacks it presents. It is often used when describing events, circumstances, or behaviors that deviate from what is desired, anticipated, or considered proper etiquette, thus, it is not necessarily a catastrophic event.

Untoward meaning with examples

• The storm brought about Untoward weather conditions. The sudden downpour caused a great deal of inconvenience. Flights were delayed, the streets became flooded, and many outdoor events had to be cancelled. The unexpected change in weather resulted in a disruptive, although not dangerous experience for many, it would be best if everyone would stay home.
• During the negotiations, there were several Untoward incidents. The opposing parties frequently butted heads. Harsh words were exchanged, threats were made, and progress seemed stalled. Although a solution was finally reached, the process was much more challenging because the participants failed to behave properly, causing undue friction.
• The manager received an Untoward report of employee conduct. His team members shared that their colleague was consistently disrespectful, often arriving late for meetings and making inappropriate comments. This prompted him to take immediate disciplinary action. It was deemed that his conduct was not good for teamwork, so, he needed to make changes immediately to salvage his career.
• Despite our best efforts, some Untoward complications arose during the surgical procedure. The patient experienced a sudden drop in blood pressure, forcing the surgical team to adapt quickly to prevent any greater issues. Fortunately, they managed to stabilize the situation. However, the unexpected challenges made the surgery longer than expected, so they could rest easily.