Vocabulary word Unforthcoming - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

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Dictionary Definition of unforthcoming

Unwilling or hesitant to provide information, help, or cooperation.
"She found her colleagues unforthcoming when she asked for assistance with her project."

Detailed Meaning of Unforthcoming

It suggests a lack of openness, transparency, or willingness to share. When someone or something is described as unforthcoming, it implies a reluctance to reveal or disclose relevant details, facts, or opinions. This can apply to individuals who are evasive, guarded, or non-communicative in their responses or actions. It can also refer to situations, events, or circumstances where the desired or expected information or assistance is not readily provided. "Unforthcoming" indicates a lack of forthcomingness, indicating a sense of reservation, secrecy, or uncooperativeness.

Example Sentences for Unforthcoming

1. The witness remained unforthcoming during the interrogation, refusing to provide any useful information.
2. The company's financial statements were vague and unforthcoming, raising suspicions among investors.
3. The politician was unforthcoming about his plans for the future, leaving the public uncertain.
4. The suspect's unforthcoming behavior raised doubts about his innocence.
5. The employee's unforthcoming attitude hindered the team's progress on the project.
6. Despite repeated requests, the company's customer service was unforthcoming in resolving the issue.

Origin and Etymology of Unforthcoming

The adjective 'unforthcoming' can be understood by examining its root word, 'forthcoming.' In this term, the prefix 'un-' is employed to negate or reverse the quality of being 'forthcoming.' 'Forthcoming' originates from the Middle English word 'forthcomen,' where 'forth' means 'forward' or 'out,' and 'comen' means 'to come.' Over time, 'forthcoming' evolved in the English language to describe someone or something that is willing, eager, or readily available to provide information, help, or cooperation. Therefore, 'unforthcoming' signifies the opposite, denoting someone who is unwilling, hesitant, or not readily available to provide such assistance or cooperation, often suggesting a lack of openness or transparency. Its etymology is deeply rooted in the historical development of 'forthcoming' and the use of 'un-' to convey the reversal of cooperative and forthcoming qualities.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective unforthcoming:

reticent

communicative

forthcoming

open

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Unforthcoming

1. The teacher was frustrated with the unforthcoming responses from the students during the class discussion.
2. The detective encountered unforthcoming witnesses who were reluctant to speak about the crime.
3. The organization's leadership remained unforthcoming about the reasons behind the sudden layoffs.
4. The company's CEO was criticized for being unforthcoming about the company's financial struggles.
5. The unforthcoming nature of the investigation left the public in a state of uncertainty.
6. He remained unforthcoming about his involvement in the incident.
7. The witness was unforthcoming, making the investigation difficult.
8. Her boss was unforthcoming with feedback on her performance.
9. The unforthcoming response left them in the dark about the plan.
10. The manager was unforthcoming with details about the project.
11. Their unforthcoming attitude hindered the teamwork.
12. The company's unforthcoming policies frustrated customers.
13. She found him unforthcoming when it came to sharing his emotions.
14. The diplomat's unforthcoming stance complicated the negotiations.
15. The unforthcoming response from the government raised concerns.
16. The unforthcoming nature of the situation made them anxious.
17. He was unforthcoming about his reasons for resigning.
18. Her unforthcoming demeanor made it hard to establish trust.
19. The team leader's unforthcoming style hindered communication.
20. The unforthcoming reply left them questioning their decision.
21. The unforthcoming witness cast doubt on the defendant's innocence.
22. Unforthcoming colleagues can hinder a project's progress.
23. The CEO's unforthcoming statements raised suspicions.
24. An unforthcoming response can lead to misunderstandings.
25. The teacher's unforthcoming approach hindered student engagement.