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Synonyms

unhelpful

American  
[uhn-help-fuhl] / ˌʌnˈhɛlp fəl /

adjective

  1. not helpful.


unhelpful British  
/ ʌnˈhɛlpfʊl /

adjective

  1. not serving a useful function

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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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.

See Examples For:

“It’s a reversal of California economic policy as it relates to the entertainment industry in an unhelpful and uncompetitive direction,” said Hilary Krane, CAA’s chief legal officer, in an interview.

From Los Angeles Times Aug. 19, 2026

“Run, Denise!” is the kind of unhelpful remark, delivered by Greg when his wife is already well aware that a T. rex is bearing down on her, that defines the dialogue.

From The Wall Street Journal Aug. 13, 2026

He reiterated calls asking people not to speculate, especially about a potential motive, saying this was "unhelpful" for the investigation and "distressing" to Widdecombe's relatives.

From BBC Jul. 12, 2026

“This policy is stuck in an unhelpful 2022 mindset. Consumers will continue to reduce savings rates to pay for higher oil prices.”

From MarketWatch Jun. 11, 2026

“Any luck?” asked Constance, who had finally come down the corridor and was standing there, conspicuously unhelpful, as Kate gathered her things.

From "The Mysterious Benedict Society" by Trenton Lee Stewart

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