What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unsent
Example
I wrote an unsent letter to my ex, but I never sent it. [unsent: adjective]
Example
The email remained unsent in my outbox until I fixed the attachment. [unsent: adjective]
Example
The unsent package was still sitting on my desk waiting for me to take it to the post office. [unsent: adjective]
returned
Example
The returned letter had 'address unknown' written on it. [returned: adjective]
Example
The email bounced back and was returned to my inbox with an error message. [returned: adjective]
Example
The returned package was damaged during shipping and sent back to the seller. [returned: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Returned is more commonly used than unsent in everyday language. Returned is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unsent is less common and typically used in specific situations such as letters or packages.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unsent and returned?
Both unsent and returned are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
