# unconsciously

/ˌənˈkɑnʃəsɫi/ (US) · /ʌnkˈɒnʃəsli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unconsciously
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

to do something without realizing it or without thinking about it.

For teachers: occurring without conscious awareness or deliberate intent. Typically modifies verbs related to physical habits, speech patterns, or emotional reactions.

## Examples

- He unconsciously tapped his foot while waiting for the bus.
- Many people unconsciously mirror the body language of the person they are talking to during a conversation.
- The witness unconsciously altered her testimony to align with the leading questions posed by the investigators, demonstrating how easily memory can be influenced by external suggestion.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He did it unconscious" but "He did it unconsciously" — Learners often use the adjective 'unconscious' (meaning knocked out or asleep) when they need the adverb 'unconsciously' to describe how an action was performed.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the main verb or at the end of the clause.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.