unmet

Not yet satisfied

Unmet describes something that has not been satisfied, fulfilled, or achieved.

An unmet need remains unsatisfied.

Unmet expectations were not realized.

Unmet goals were not reached.

The word almost always modifies abstract nouns—needs, demands, expectations, requirements—rather than concrete ones.

requirement

unfulfilled

Not brought to completion

unsatisfiedNot yet content
incompleteLacking necessary parts
lackingBeing without something

insufficient · deficient · shortfall · gap · failure · noncompliance · outstanding · pending · unresolved · unaddressed

desire

yearning

Intense prolonged craving

longingIntense, persistent desire
cravingPowerful urge to have
unfulfilledNot brought to completion

unsatisfied · wanting · aching · pining · hunger · thirst · wish · dream · aspiration · need

potential

untapped

Not yet utilized

unrealizedNot made actual
undevelopedNot fully formed
latentPresent but inactive

dormant · hidden · unexploited · wasted · squandered · overlooked · neglected · underutilized · idle · fallow

Categories

incompleteincomplete, unfinished, partial, fragmentary, half-done
unfulfilledunfulfilled, unsatisfied, dissatisfied, incomplete, lacking
expectationsexpect, expectation, anticipate, expectancy, await
falling shortdeficient, lacking, shortfall, failure, gap

Opposites

fulfillment/satisfaction

unmetmet

Came upon someone

satisfied · fulfilled · addressed · attended to · answered

achievement/completion

Successfully completed a goal

accomplished · attained · reached · realized · completed

Phrases

unmet expectationsHopes that weren't fulfilled
unmet needsRequirements not yet addressed

Family

unmetered, unmeetable

Familiarity: Top 200,000
Profile: Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Abstract · Negative · Everyday, not technical · Rated G