A feeling of dissatisfaction, annoyance, or resentment about a particular situation or decision.
example
Die kurzfristige Absage des Konzerts sorgte bei den Fans für großen Unmut.
The last-minute cancellation of the concert caused great discontent among the fans.
Usage tips
Not the opposite of 'Mut'
Although the word contains 'Mut' (courage), 'Unmut' does not mean 'cowardice'. It is a fixed term for annoyance and dissatisfaction and has no direct connection to the meaning of 'Mut' (courage).
EXAMPLE
Der Unmut in der Bevölkerung über die neuen Gesetze wächst.
Discontent among the population about the new laws is growing.
Rather formal style
The word 'Unmut' (discontent) is often used in written language, especially in news and reports, to describe the dissatisfaction of a group. It is less common in everyday conversation.
EXAMPLE
Der Artikel beschreibt den Unmut der Anwohner über den Baulärm.
The article describes the residents' discontent about the construction noise.
Typical collocations
Unmut is often expressed with certain verbs. A situation can 'hervorrufen' (cause) or 'auslösen' (trigger) discontent. A person can 'ihrem Unmut Luft machen' (vent their anger/discontent).
EXAMPLE
Die Entscheidung der Firma löste bei den Mitarbeitern großen Unmut aus.
The company's decision triggered great discontent among the employees.
Reason for discontent
To state the reason for the dissatisfaction, the preposition 'über' (about) is used with the accusative. One has Unmut 'über' (discontent about) something.
EXAMPLE
Es herrschte großer Unmut über die gestiegenen Preise.
There was great discontent about the increased prices.
Compare with
near_synonym
Unmut vs Ärger
annoyance / trouble
'der Ärger' and 'der Unmut' both describe dissatisfaction about something. 'Ärger' is very common in everyday language and can also mean stronger anger. 'Unmut' sounds somewhat more formal and is often used when several people are dissatisfied with a decision or situation. In personal everyday situations, 'Ärger' usually sounds more natural. In the news, work-related contexts, or when describing a group's reaction, 'Unmut' is often more precise.
Unmut
Nach der neuen Regel gibt es viel Unmut unter den Mitarbeitern.
After the new rule, there is a lot of discontent among the employees.
Ärger
Wegen der falschen Rechnung hat mein Vater großen Ärger gehabt.
Because of the incorrect bill, my father had a lot of trouble.