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Ungovernable: meaning, definitions and examples

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ungovernable

 

[ˌʌnˈɡʌvərnəb(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Difficult or impossible to control or govern.

Synonyms

uncontrollable, unruly, untamable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ungovernable

This is a repeat of the first word and its examples have already been provided.
uncontrollable

Best used when describing something or someone that cannot be controlled, often due to their intense or overwhelming nature.

  • The fire had grown to an uncontrollable size, threatening nearby homes.
  • His uncontrollable anger often got him into trouble.
unruly

Apply 'unruly' to describe behavior or actions that are difficult to manage due to disobedience or lack of discipline.

  • The unruly students were sent to the principal's office.
  • Her unruly hair refused to stay in place.
untamable

Use 'untamable' when referring to something wild or natural that cannot be subdued or domesticated.

  • The mustang ran free, an untamable spirit of the wild west.
  • The jungle was an untamable wilderness, full of dangers and mysteries.

Examples of usage

  • The children were so ungovernable that the teacher had to call for backup.
  • The wild horse proved to be ungovernable, no matter how hard the trainer tried.
Context #2 | Adjective

personality

Not capable of being controlled or influenced.

Synonyms

uncontrollable, unmanageable, unruly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ungovernable

This word is used to describe something or someone that cannot be governed or controlled by rules or authority, often used in a political or social context.

  • The protest soon turned into an ungovernable mob.
  • The new region has been considered ungovernable due to its deep-seated divisions.
unmanageable

This term is used to characterize something that is difficult to handle or deal with due to its complexity or size. It often applies to situations, tasks, or people.

  • The project grew into an unmanageable mess.
  • The unmanageable workload stressed everyone in the office.
unruly

This word describes behavior that is disruptive, disorderly, or not willing to submit to control or discipline. It can refer to both people and animals, and it often carries a negative connotation.

  • The unruly children disrupted the entire class.
  • Her unruly hair was difficult to style.
uncontrollable

This word is employed when describing something that is impossible to bring under control, such as emotions, situations, or objects. It implies a lack of restraint or regulation.

  • His uncontrollable anger ruined the meeting.
  • The wildfire spread with uncontrollable speed.

Examples of usage

  • Her ungovernable temper often got her into trouble.
  • His ungovernable desire for adventure led him to take risks.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the prefix 'un-', meaning 'not', and 'governable', which refers to the ability to be ruled or managed.
  • The term has roots in Middle English and Latin, with 'gubernare' meaning 'to steer or direct'.
  • It was first recorded in the English language in the early 19th century.

Political Science

  • In politics, 'ungovernable' often describes a sociopolitical condition where authority fails, leading to chaos or rebellion.
  • Historical examples include regions experiencing civil unrest, where the government couldn't maintain order.
  • The term is frequently used to describe countries or areas in transition from dictatorship to democracy.

Literature

  • In literature, characters described as 'ungovernable' often embody themes of freedom and rebellion, challenging societal norms.
  • Notable works feature protagonists who defy authority, showcasing the struggle against unmanageable circumstances.
  • Classic novels like 'Moby-Dick' discuss characters whose actions seem ungovernable by societal expectations.

Psychology

  • The concept often applies in psychology, where certain behaviors or reactions are described as 'ungovernable', reflecting a loss of control.
  • Impulsive actions or strong emotional responses can be viewed as ungovernable when individuals cannot regulate their feelings.
  • Therapeutic approaches sometimes focus on helping people regain a sense of control over 'ungovernable' emotions.

Sociology

  • From a sociological perspective, the term may refer to groups or communities that resist traditional governance structures.
  • Understanding ungovernability can highlight issues of social justice and the struggles of marginalized communities.
  • Research in this area often analyzes how social movements can emerge in ungovernable conditions.

Translations

Translations of the word "ungovernable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ingovernável

🇮🇳 अशासनीय

🇩🇪 unregierbar

🇮🇩 tak terkendali

🇺🇦 некерований

🇵🇱 nieposkromiony

🇯🇵 統治不可能

🇫🇷 ingouvernable

🇪🇸 ingobernable

🇹🇷 yönetilemez

🇰🇷 통치할 수 없는

🇸🇦 غير قابل للحكم

🇨🇿 neovladatelný

🇸🇰 neovládateľný

🇨🇳 无法治理的

🇸🇮 neobvladljiv

🇮🇸 óstjórnanlegur

🇰🇿 басқарылмайтын

🇬🇪 უკონტროლო

🇦🇿 idarəolunmaz

🇲🇽 ingobernable

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,031, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.