B2adjective2K

UK//ˌʌnˈsteɪbəl//US//ʌnˈsteɪbəl//

Meaning of Unstable

Not firm, steady, or secure; prone to change or failure.

In simple words: Not steady or secure, often likely to change or fail.

Unstable in a sentence

  • 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.

How to use Unstable

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.

Related words

Collocations with Unstable

  • unstable condition
  • unstable situation
  • unstable environment
  • unstable economy
  • unstable relationship

Synonyms for Unstable

Opposites of Unstable

Common mistakes with Unstable

  • Confused with 'stable' — remember that unstable means not stable.
  • Using it to describe people directly without context—better for situations or conditions.

Unstable appears in

Unstable in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Unstable

What does Unstable mean?

Not steady or secure, often likely to change or fail.

What is the definition of Unstable?

Not firm, steady, or secure; prone to change or failure.

How do you use Unstable in a sentence?

The weather in spring can be quite unstable.

Can you give another example of Unstable?

Investing in unstable markets can lead to significant losses.

What are synonyms for Unstable?

Common alternatives include precarious, volatile, shaky, fickle, insecure.

What is the opposite of Unstable?

Opposite meanings include stable, secure, steady.

What words go with Unstable?

It commonly pairs with unstable condition, unstable situation, unstable environment, unstable economy, unstable relationship.

What are common mistakes when using Unstable?

Confused with 'stable' — remember that unstable means not stable. Using it to describe people directly without context—better for situations or conditions.

How do you pronounce Unstable?

US: //ʌnˈsteɪbəl//, UK: //ˌʌnˈsteɪbəl//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Unstable?

Used in both everyday and technical contexts. Avoid in conversations where positive connotations are expected.

What CEFR level is Unstable?

"Unstable" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.