UNNATURAL Synonyms: 172 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'unnatural' distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words anomalous and irregular are common synonyms of unnatural . While all three words mean "not conforming to rule, law, or custom," unnatural suggests what is contrary to nature or to principles or standards felt to be essential to the well-being of civilized society. // prisoners treated with unnatural cruelty

Q: When could 'anomalous' be used to replace 'unnatural'?

The meanings of anomalous and unnatural largely overlap; however, anomalous implies not conforming to what might be expected because of the class or type to which it belongs or the laws that govern its existence. // her drive made her an anomalous figure in a sleepy organization

Q: When is 'irregular' a more appropriate choice than 'unnatural'?

The words irregular and unnatural are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, irregular implies not conforming to a law or regulation imposed for the sake of uniformity in method, practice, or conduct. // concerned about his irregular behavior

unnatural

adjective

ˌən-ˈna-chə-rəl

Definition of unnatural next

as in abnormal

departing from some accepted standard of what is normal the documentary evinces an unnatural obsession with the gruesome details of the disaster

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in strained

lacking in natural or spontaneous quality just before the debate, the candidates flashed unnatural smiles for the cameras

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word unnatural distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words anomalous and irregular are common synonyms of unnatural. While all three words mean "not conforming to rule, law, or custom," unnatural suggests what is contrary to nature or to principles or standards felt to be essential to the well-being of civilized society.

prisoners treated with unnatural cruelty

When could anomalous be used to replace unnatural?

The meanings of anomalous and unnatural largely overlap; however, anomalous implies not conforming to what might be expected because of the class or type to which it belongs or the laws that govern its existence.

her drive made her an anomalous figure in a sleepy organization

When is irregular a more appropriate choice than unnatural?

The words irregular and unnatural are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, irregular implies not conforming to a law or regulation imposed for the sake of uniformity in method, practice, or conduct.

concerned about his irregular behavior

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of unnatural Those with sensitive skin may experience undesired outcomes from traditional products that use harsh, unnatural ingredients. —

Molly Peck, USA TODAY, 8 Jan. 2025 Whether the new transparency mode sounds any better than the older pair’s unnatural reproduction is still a question mark, though. —

Quentyn Kennemer, The Verge, 7 Jan. 2025 Be aware of visual imperfections: Look for subtle flaws in images or videos, such as distorted features or unnatural movements, which may indicate manipulation. —

Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 7 Jan. 2025 Be mindful not to get carried away and use jargon that’s hard to understand or feels unnatural, Wilding added — simply be more direct. —

Ashton Jackson, CNBC, 28 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for unnatural

Recent Examples of Synonyms for unnatural

Adjective

Drinking in excess is, in fact, linked to high blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms, and sometimes even heart failure, according to American Heart Association researchers.

— Jamie Ducharme, TIME, 28 Jan. 2025
Crews from the city of Escondido found no abnormal readings indicating toxic fumes and air-quality monitoring did not indicate any health risks.

— Rob Nikolewski, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Jan. 2025