unreasonable - Master This Word

unreasonable Word Meanings

• not guided by or based on reason; irrational.
• exceeding the limits of reason or moderation.

unreasonable Example Sentences

Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.

• It is unreasonable to expect a child to study for ten hours.
• Her request for a bigger allowance feels unreasonable.
• It seems unreasonable to drive so far for just one meeting.
• He gave an unreasonable answer to the simple question.
• The price of this toy is unreasonable for a small item.

unreasonable Word Etymology

un- = not, reasonable = based on reason. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine someone shaking their head in disbelief at an illogical argument, symbolizing the essence of 'unreasonable'.

Real Context

Unreasonable describes something not guided by reason, or beyond the limits of what would be sensible. In everyday use, it often refers to judgments, demands, or actions that ignore evidence, logic, or practical constraints. Learners frequently confuse it with similar words like irrational or excessive, but the nuance matters: something can be oddly impressive without being unreasonable, while an argument can be unreasonable without being completely illogical. The word carries a mild moral edge when someone acts without common sense, yet it can be used humorously for stubborn opinions. Remember that unreasonableness usually implies a failure to balance reasons against consequences.

Usage Reminders

• 1) Use for judgments/requests lacking evidence or balance.
• 2) Use 'unreasonably' to modify verbs or actions.
• 3) Don’t swap with irrational when focusing on logic rather than fairness.
• 4) Tone matters; a remark can be critical without being personal.
• 5) Give concrete reasons and consequences when labeling something unreasonable.

Common Misconceptions

• Unreasonable = immoral or cruel, which it is not necessarily
• Irrational means lacking logic; unreasonable can still be logically structured but unbalanced
• Unreasonable only describes people, not situations
• Confusing unreasonable with 'unfair' or 'unjust' in moral judgments
• Overusing it for minor annoyances reduces impact

Thinking Differences

English speakers often link 'unreasonable' to a perceived lack of common sense or fairness, while noting the outcome or demand may still be logically plausible but poorly balanced. Learners tend to overextend it to minor annoyances or moral judgments.

Learning Tips

• 1) Compare with irrational for logic flaws, and with unfair for moral judgments.
• 2) Note when it describes a person vs a situation.
• 3) Use alongside concrete evidence to avoid sounding harsh.
• 4) Remember adverb form: unreasonably, to describe actions.
• 5) Practice with real-world examples across settings (work, school, media).
• 6) Check tone in formal writing to avoid offense.

5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English

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