Untoward/ʌnˈtɔːrd/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Social Sensitivity Use 'untoward' to discreetly describe actions or words that may offend. His untoward language during the meeting was noted by all. Pro Tip 2/3Context of Surprise 'Untoward' often implies an element of surprise in an inconvenient situation. Her untoward remark about the boss's policy caught everyone off-guard. Pro Tip 3/3Negative Connotation Using 'untoward' gives a negative feeling to the action or event being described. There was nothing untoward about his conduct at the party.