What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unkept
Example
The garden was unkept and overgrown with weeds. [unkept: adjective]
Example
The company's finances were left unkept and in disarray. [unkept: adjective]
Example
He left his promises unkept and failed to follow through on his commitments. [unkept: adjective]
unkempt
Example
He showed up to the meeting looking unkempt and disheveled. [unkempt: adjective]
Example
Her hair was unkempt and tangled after a long day at work. [unkempt: adjective]
Example
The abandoned house had an unkempt yard and broken windows. [unkempt: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unkempt is more commonly used than unkept in everyday language, particularly when describing physical appearance or environmental conditions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unkept and unkempt?
Both unkept and unkempt are informal words that are suitable for casual conversations or informal writing. However, unkept may be slightly more formal due to its less common usage and association with agreements or promises.
