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nonpresidential

nonpresidential

6.7
Not acting with the calm, formal dignity expected of a president
  • adjective
  • /nɒnˈprɛzɪˌdɛnʃəl/
  • Literature
translation icon : no presidencial
  • His nonpresidential attitude surprised those who expected a more formal approach.

Examples

  • His behavior was surprisingly nonpresidential during the debate.

  • Voters debated whether her actions were nonpresidential or simply modern and relatable.

  • Many critics found the leader's remarks to be nonpresidential during the important press conference.

  • The candidate's nonpresidential remarks drew criticism from many voters.

  • The mayor's lack of decorum during the debate made him appear nonpresidential.

  • Her nonpresidential comments on social media caused many to question her suitability for office.

  • His inability to handle criticism gracefully was seen as nonpresidential behavior by the voters.

Synonyms

unpresidential
vsnonpresidential
  • Literature
3 7.7

Behavior that is not suitable for a president, lacking respect or calm

is used the same way but appears more often in formal or written contexts
unstatesmanlike
vsnonpresidential
  • Formal
9.3

A person who behaves in a way that is not calm, careful, or respectful for a political leader

focuses on lacking the special dignity expected from a top national officeholder
unpolitic
vsnonpresidential
  • Formal
8.9

Not showing good judgment when dealing with people or situations

is about lacking formal dignity and high office conduct rather than mere poor tact

Antonyms

4.4

Being calm and confident like a country's leader

How Presidential

statesmanlike
  • Formal
4 8.6
presidential
4.4
nonpresidential
  • Literature
6.7
undignified
11 4.7

Surface Forms

nonpresidential positive

Morphology

nonpresidential = presidential (transparent) = non + president + ial

The adjective is formed by straightforward prefixation of productive negating 'non-' to the adjective 'presidential', preserving the literal negative meaning.

Etymology

Nonpresidential is made from non- meaning 'not' and president, which is the same root as preside meaning 'to be in charge'. So nonpresidential describes behavior that is not 'presidential' — not calm, formal, or in the style people expect from a president.