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Undependable: meaning, definitions and examples

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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?

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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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

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

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.