Cool MateUnstable
UK //ˌʌnˈsteɪbəl//US //ʌnˈsteɪbəl//
Definition
Not firm, steady, or secure; prone to change or failure.
In simple words: Not steady or secure, often likely to change or fail.
Examples
- The weather in spring can be quite unstable.
- Investing in unstable markets can lead to significant losses.
- Their relationship felt unstable after the argument.
- The bridge was declared unstable after the earthquake.
- Unstable conditions in the economy raise concerns for investors.
Usage notes
Used in both everyday and technical contexts. Avoid in conversations where positive connotations are expected.
Grammar pattern
unstable + noun
Memory hint
Think of unstable as 'un-steady', like a wobbly table.
Collocations
- unstable condition
- unstable situation
- unstable environment
- unstable economy
- unstable relationship
Synonyms
- precarious
- volatile
- shaky
- fickle
- insecure
Antonyms
- stable
- secure
- steady
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'stable' — remember that unstable means not stable.
- Using it to describe people directly without context—better for situations or conditions.