ungünstiger

Ungünstiger is the comparative form of the German adjective ungünstig, which means unfavorable, disadvantageous, or inconvenient. The word is used to describe circumstances, conditions, or outcomes that are less favorable than another reference point. The corresponding superlative is am ungünstigsten.

In usage, ungünstig describes practical or situational negativity rather than moral judgment. It often appears when discussing timing, risk, or feasibility. Examples include: Der Zeitpunkt ist ungünstiger geworden. (The timing has become more unfavorable.) Die Wetterbedingungen waren ungünstig, deshalb verschoben wir die Reise. (The weather conditions were unfavorable, so we postponed the trip.) In comparing options, one might say: Eine ungünstigere Lösung wäre kostenintensiver, aber sicherer. (A more unfavorable/worse solution would be more costly, but safer.)

Etymology and related forms: ungünstig is formed with the negating prefix un- attached to günstig, which means favorable or advantageous. The adjective declines like other adjectives in German and forms the comparative ungünstiger and the superlative am ungünstigsten. Related terms include synonyms such as nachteilig and unvorteilhaft, and antonyms such as günstig or vorteilhaft.

Notes on usage: Ungünstig is a neutral to formal descriptor used for circumstances, forecasts, plans, or environments rather than for people. It conveys a negative assessment without assigning blame, focusing on practicality and feasibility.