Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Undependable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

❌
Add to dictionary

undependable

[ˌʌndɪˈpɛndəbəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

in relationships

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

Synonyms

inconsistent, unreliable, untrustworthy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
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

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies find that perceived trustworthiness, or lack thereof, can significantly impact personal relationships and teamwork.
  • People often form impressions based on behaviors like consistency, which is pivotal in appealing or repelling social bonds.

Literature

  • In many classic novels, characters labeled as 'undependable' are often used to create conflict or tension, reflecting real human flaws.
  • Authors like Dickens and Austen explored themes of trust and betrayal, showcasing how undependability impacts social dynamics.

Pop Culture

  • In modern films and TV shows, undependable characters often create comic relief or dramatic tension, like the unreliable narrator trope.
  • Songs often depict themes of betrayal or disappointment, highlighting how undependable people can affect relationships.

Science

  • In experimental methods, researchers consider how undependable factors can lead to inconsistent results, stressing the importance of reliability.
  • The concept of reliability is crucial in technology as well; undependable software can lead to major operational issues.

Origin of 'undependable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'undependable' combines 'un-' (not) with 'dependable,' which comes from Latin roots meaning 'to hang from' or 'to rely on.'
  • It became commonly used in English in the early 20th century to describe people or things that are unreliable.

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.