# unwarranted

/ənˈwɔɹəntɪd/ (US) · /ʌnwˈɒɹəntɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unwarranted
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

not fair or necessary for the situation. You use this to describe an action or feeling that has no good reason behind it.

For teachers: lacking justification, authority, or a valid reason. Often describes negative reactions, such as criticism or interference, that are seen as excessive or unearned.

## Examples

- The boss gave me some unwarranted criticism today.
- The police decided that a full search of the vehicle was unwarranted because the driver had not broken any laws.
- While the initial concerns were valid, the subsequent media frenzy was largely unwarranted and caused significant distress to the family involved.

## Usage notes

- Typically used before a noun or after a linking verb like 'be' or 'seem'.

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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.