What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unreturned
Example
I loaned him my book, but it remained unreturned. [unreturned: adjective]
Example
She left several messages, but they all went unreturned. [unreturned: adjective]
Example
He did me a favor, but it went unreturned. [unreturned: adjective]
unanswered
Example
The teacher asked a question, but it went unanswered. [unanswered: adjective]
Example
I called her several times, but the phone went unanswered. [unanswered: adjective]
Example
The issue remained unresolved and unanswered. [unanswered: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unanswered is more commonly used than unreturned in everyday language. Unanswered is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unreturned is less common and refers to a specific type of lack of reciprocation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between unreturned and unanswered?
Both unreturned and unanswered are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
