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Showing results for untoward. Search instead for untowa.
Definitions

untoward

[uhn-tawrd, -tohrd] / ʌnˈtɔrd, -ˈtoʊrd /
ADJECTIVE
troublesome
Synonyms
STRONGEST
adverse disturbing perverse unfortunate unmanageable
WEAK
annoying awkward contrary disastrous fractious hapless ill-starred inauspicious inconvenient indocile inimical inopportune intractable irritating luckless misfortunate recalcitrant refractory star-crossed undisciplined unfavorable ungovernable unhappy unlucky unpliable unpropitious unruly untimely unyielding vexatious wild
Antonyms
STRONGEST
fortunate happy lucky
WEAK
acceptable auspicious proper suitable
ADJECTIVE
improper; not suitable
Synonyms
STRONGEST
inappropriate unbecoming unseemly
WEAK
improprietous indecent indecorous indelicate malodorous out of place rough uncouth unfitting ungodly
Antonyms
STRONGEST
appropriate fitting proper seemly suitable
WEAK
acceptable auspicious happy lucky

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Out of nowhere, Ric appeared, said hello to everyone and, as if nothing untoward had happened, sat down and ate his eggs and beans.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

Is she doing something untoward with his money?

From MarketWatch • Dec. 15, 2025

There isn’t necessarily anything untoward about these arrangements.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 22, 2025

"We also had a hand-held scanner, and sirens and flashing lights should anything untoward be detected," said championship committee member St John Burkett.

From Barron's • Oct. 17, 2025

There was no fire, no smoke, not the slightest untoward noise.

From "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller

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