The Opposite(Antonym) of “motherly”
The antonyms of motherly are unmaternal, uncaring, and unsympathetic. These antonyms describe a lack of maternal qualities such as care, affection, and sympathy.
Explore all Antonyms of “motherly”
Definitions and Examples of unmaternal, uncaring, unsympathetic
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Lacking the qualities or behavior associated with a mother's care and affection.
Example
She was unmaternal towards her children, rarely showing them any affection.
Lacking concern or sympathy for others; indifferent.
Example
The manager's uncaring attitude towards his employees led to low morale and high turnover.
Not showing understanding or support for someone's feelings or situation.
Example
The judge was unsympathetic to the defendant's plea for leniency.
Key Differences: unmaternal vs uncaring vs unsympathetic
- 1Unmaternal specifically refers to a lack of maternal qualities, while uncaring and unsympathetic can apply to anyone who lacks concern or sympathy for others.
- 2Uncaring suggests a lack of emotional investment in others, while unsympathetic implies a lack of understanding or support for someone's feelings or situation.
Effective Usage of unmaternal, uncaring, unsympathetic
- 1Describing People: Use these antonyms to describe people who lack maternal qualities, care, affection, or sympathy.
- 2Comparing Characters: Use these antonyms to compare and contrast characters in literature or media.
- 3Expressing Disapproval: Use these antonyms to express disapproval of someone's behavior or attitude.
Remember this!
The antonyms of motherly describe a lack of maternal qualities, care, affection, or sympathy. Unmaternal specifically refers to a lack of maternal qualities, while uncaring and unsympathetic can apply to anyone who lacks concern or sympathy for others. Use these antonyms to describe people, compare characters, or express disapproval.