Unlivable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unlivable
[ʌnˈlɪvəbl ]
Definition
living conditions
The term 'unlivable' describes a situation or environment that is not suitable or safe for living. This can refer to a place that lacks basic amenities such as water, shelter, and sanitation. It may also pertain to areas that are deemed hazardous due to violence, pollution, or natural disasters. In general, if a place is considered unlivable, it is usually advised that individuals seek alternative habitation.
Synonyms
inhabitable, uninhabitable, unsafe, unsuitable.
Examples of usage
- The building was declared unlivable after the fire.
- Many families were displaced from their unlivable homes.
- Due to severe flooding, the area became unlivable for residents.
- The toxic waste made the area unlivable.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Environmental Issues
- Areas affected by natural disasters, like hurricanes or floods, can become unlivable until recovery occurs.
- Polluted cities with harmful air quality can lead to health hazards, making them unlivable for residents.
- Climate change increases the likelihood of regions becoming unlivable due to rising sea levels and extreme weather.
Psychology
- Living in unlivable conditions can lead to increased stress and mental health issues.
- The concept of 'place attachment' shows people feel connected to livable environments versus unlivable ones.
- Research suggests that environments significantly impact well-being, making the livability of a space crucial.
Literature
- In dystopian novels, unlivable settings often serve as a backdrop for exploring themes of survival and resilience.
- Authors use unlivable environments to reflect characters' inner turmoil and societal decay, enhancing the narrative.
- Classic literature often contrasts unlivable and livable spaces to highlight conflicts between characters and their surroundings.
Urban Development
- Urban planners focus on improving livability standards to transform unlivable areas into safe, thriving communities.
- Gentrification can sometimes make previously unlivable neighborhoods attractive, displacing original residents.
- Efforts are made to address infrastructure problems in cities to prevent areas from becoming unlivable due to neglect.
Origin of 'unlivable'
Main points about word origin
- The prefix 'un-' means 'not,' indicating the opposite of livable.
- Root 'live' comes from Old English 'libban,' meaning to be alive or to exist.
- The suffix '-able' means 'capable of,' showing the potential for livability.
The word 'unlivable' is derived from the prefix 'un-', meaning 'not', and the adjective 'livable', which originates from the verb 'live'. The term 'live' comes from the Old English 'libban', which means 'to be alive, to live'. The addition of the suffix '-able' indicates suitability or capability, forming 'livable' as something that can be lived in. The transformation to 'unlivable' reflects a change to its opposite meaning, indicating that a location is not suitable for living. It began to gain traction in the late 20th century as urban development issues, environmental concerns, and social contexts increasingly highlighted the condition of places where people might reside.