Unpredictable: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something or someone whose actions or future states cannot be anticipated. It is a neutral term.

• The weather has been so unpredictable lately.
• His behavior can be unpredictable at times.

Used for events or situations that cannot be predicted or seen in advance. It is a neutral term usually used in formal contexts.

• The accident was an unforeseeable event.
• We couldn't have prepared for such unforeseeable circumstances.

Often refers to a person whose mood or behavior changes suddenly and for no logical reason. This word has a slightly negative connotation, suggesting unreliability.

• She made a capricious decision to go to the city without any plan.
• He's so capricious you never know how he will react.

Describes something or someone that is likely to change rapidly and unpredictably, especially for the worse. It often has a negative implication, suggesting instability or danger.

• The political situation in that country is highly volatile.
• His volatile temper makes people around him uncomfortable.

Describes someone who changes their mind often, often in an untrustworthy or inconsistent way. This term carries a stronger negative connotation.

• Public opinion can be fickle.
• She’s too fickle to rely on.

This word is used when something or someone cannot be predicted or foreseen. It usually implies surprises or changes that are hard to anticipate.

• The weather in the mountains is highly unpredictable.
• His behavior has been unpredictable lately, and no one knows how he will react.

This word is often used to describe irregular or unpredictable behavior or movement. It suggests a lack of consistency and can have a slightly negative connotation.

• Her driving was erratic, swerving between lanes.
• His erratic behavior at work has been concerning everyone.

This word describes things that do not stay the same or regular. It can be used for performance, behavior, or opinions. It often implies a lack of reliability.

• The quality of his work has been inconsistent.
• She has been inconsistent with her attendance at meetings.

This word suggests a lack of stability, both physically and metaphorically. It often has a negative connotation and can imply danger or risk.

• The political situation in the region remains unstable.
• The chair looks unstable; it might break if you sit on it.

Use this word when someone or something cannot be depended on. It has a quite negative connotation.

• The bus schedule in this city is very unreliable.
• He proved to be unreliable by not finishing the project on time.