unintended
UK: ˌʌnɪnˈtɛndɪd | US: ˌʌnɪnˈtɛndɪd
adj. not planned or meant to happen
adj. occurring without deliberate intent
The word "unintended" combines the prefix "un-" (Old English "un-," meaning "not") with the verb "intend" (from Latin "intendere," meaning "to stretch toward, aim at") and the suffix "-ed" (indicating past participle form). The morpheme "intend" itself derives from Latin "in-" (toward) + "tendere" (to stretch), metaphorically evolving into "to plan or purpose." Over time, "unintended" came to describe outcomes that were not deliberately sought, preserving the logical negation of intention.
The unintended consequences of the policy caused widespread confusion.
Her unintended remark offended several attendees.
The software update led to unintended data loss.
He apologized for the unintended delay in responding.
The study focused on unintended side effects of the medication.