Undependable: meaning, definitions and examples

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undependable

 

[ ˌʌndɪˈpɛndəbəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

in relationships

Not able to be relied on or trusted; not dependable.

Synonyms

inconsistent, unreliable, untrustworthy.

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Word Description / Examples
undependable

Use in situations where the subject cannot be relied upon for consistency or reliability. It conveys a general sense of unreliability in various contexts.

  • His undependable nature makes it hard to count on him for important tasks.
  • An undependable car may break down when you need it the most.
unreliable

Used when someone or something cannot be trusted to do what is expected or needed. It indicates a failure to meet obligations or expectations.

  • The unreliable internet connection caused many problems during the meeting.
  • Jake is unreliable when it comes to keeping promises.
untrustworthy

Refers to someone who cannot be trusted, often suggesting a deeper issue with honesty or integrity. It has a stronger and more negative connotation.

  • She was deemed untrustworthy after several incidents of dishonesty.
  • It's difficult to work with an untrustworthy business partner.
inconsistent

Applies when someone or something does not maintain a steady pattern or standard, often causing unpredictability. It emphasizes variability in performance or behavior.

  • Her inconsistent behavior is confusing to her colleagues.
  • The company’s inconsistent policies are frustrating employees.

Examples of usage

  • He is undependable when it comes to meeting deadlines.
  • She has proven to be undependable in keeping her promises.
  • The undependable behavior of his friend made him reconsider the friendship.

Translations

Translations of the word "undependable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 não confiável

🇮🇳 अविश्वसनीय

🇩🇪 unzuverlässig

🇮🇩 tidak dapat diandalkan

🇺🇦 ненадійний

🇵🇱 niewiarygodny

🇯🇵 信頼できない

🇫🇷 peu fiable

🇪🇸 poco confiable

🇹🇷 güvenilmez

🇰🇷 신뢰할 수 없는

🇸🇦 غير موثوق

🇨🇿 nespolehlivý

🇸🇰 nespoľahlivý

🇨🇳 不可靠

🇸🇮 nezanesljiv

🇮🇸 óáreiðanlegur

🇰🇿 сенімсіз

🇬🇪 ненდობი

🇦🇿 etibarsız

🇲🇽 poco confiable

Etymology

The word 'undependable' originated from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'dependable' meaning 'reliable'. It first appeared in the early 19th century and has been used to describe someone or something that cannot be relied upon or trusted. The term highlights the lack of trustworthiness or reliability in a person or situation.

See also: depend, dependability, dependable, dependably, dependence, dependency, dependent, dependently, independence, independency, independent, interdependence, interdependent, undependably.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,459 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.