Unreliable: meaning, definitions and examples

When referring to a person, service, or object that consistently fails to meet expectations or perform its duties.

• The internet connection at this café is unreliable.
• He is an unreliable friend; he always cancels plans at the last minute.

Used for someone who cannot be trusted due to a history of lying, deceit, or failure to keep promises. This word often has a negative connotation.

• He is untrustworthy and has broken many promises.
• Because of his untrustworthy behavior, no one wants to do business with him.

Often used to describe people or systems that cannot be relied upon for consistent performance or support.

• The car is undependable, breaking down frequently during long trips.
• His undependable nature makes it hard to count on him for anything important.

Describes people, situations, or things that are difficult to foresee or anticipate because they change frequently.

• The weather in this region is highly unpredictable.
• Her moods are unpredictable; you never know how she'll react.

Primarily used in the context of romantic relationships to describe someone who cheats or is disloyal.

• She discovered that her husband was unfaithful.
• An unfaithful partner can seriously damage the trust in a relationship.