If a functor U has a left co-unadjoint then U can be factored through a category of semad algebras. An analogue of the Beck monadicity theory is obtained. If R is a ring without a left unit but satisfying R2= R then the category of unitary left R-modules need not be monadic over Set. The forgetful functor has, however, a left co-unadjoint for which a comparison functor is an equivalence of categories. Another example of a semadic functor is obtained by composing the forgetful functor from Abelian groups to Set with the doubling functor. The semi-adjoint situations in the senses of Medvedev and Davis are examined.