unscathed - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
unscathed Word Meanings
- not harmed or injured
- remaining safe and intact
- escaped damage
unscathed Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
unscathed Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ʌnˈskeɪvd/
US
/ʌnˈskeɪvd/
unscathed Word Etymology
un- = not + scathed = harmed. Originated from Old English 'unscathed' which means 'not harmed'. Imagine a knight after battle, completely unharmed, standing tall and proud, evidence of their bravery.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Unscathed describes someone or something that has avoided harm in a risky situation. It emphasizes an intact condition rather than merely surviving a peril. You can be unscathed after a minor fall, a hazardous trip, or a violent clash, meaning you suffered no injury or lasting damage. In everyday use, you might hear that a traveler arrived unscathed after a storm, or a plan stayed unscathed despite setbacks, signaling relief and resilience. The word carries a slightly heroic or dramatic tone, suitable for people, equipment, or plans that endured danger without harm. It implies not just luck, but a successful avoidance of harm.
Usage Reminders
- - It means you were not harmed or damaged in a risky situation.
- - It can describe people, objects, or plans that stayed intact.
- - It implies no lasting damage, not just surviving.
- - It often carries a slightly heroic or dramatic tone.
- - Use with verbs like 'came away unscathed' or 'left unscathed' to signal a clean outcome.
Common Misconceptions
- It only refers to physical harm, not emotional or psychological impact.
- It means you survived a disaster even if you were damaged.
- It is appropriate only for dramatic or heroic contexts.
- It implies perfection or no risk at all.
- It can be used for any minor scratch or blemish.
Thinking Differences
In English, unscathed often carries a subtle heroic tone and is common in narrative or media contexts to highlight resilience after danger.
Learning Tips
- Learn the prefix un- meaning not to recognize negation.
- Pair with nouns like 'injury', 'damage', or verbs like 'came away'.
- Add synonyms: unharmed, unharmed, safe and sound, intact.
- Practice both literal (physical) and figurative uses.
- Use collocations like 'came away unscathed' to sound natural.
- Read or listen to short news or stories for examples.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'unscathed'?
A.Destroyed
B.Untouched
C.Cheerful
D.Fast
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'unscathed' used correctly?
A.The storm left the town destroyed and unscathed.
B.He fell down the stairs unscathed.
C.She emerged from the fire unscathed.
D.The cat scratched her unscathed.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following words is the closest synonym of 'unscathed'?
A.Damaged
B.Singed
C.Preserved
D.Injured
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'unscathed'?
A.Hurt
B.Protected
C.Resilient
D.Lively
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would you use the word 'unscathed'?
A.After surviving a car accident without any injuries.
B.Spilling coffee on a white shirt.
C.Finishing a marathon with a leg cramp.
D.Getting a perfect score on a test.
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