Unreliable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unreliable
[ˌʌnrɪˈlaɪəbəl ]
Definition
in describing a person or source of information
Not able to be relied upon or trusted.
Synonyms
undependable, unfaithful, unpredictable, untrustworthy.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unreliable |
When referring to a person, service, or object that consistently fails to meet expectations or perform its duties.
|
| untrustworthy |
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.
|
| undependable |
Often used to describe people or systems that cannot be relied upon for consistent performance or support.
|
| unpredictable |
Describes people, situations, or things that are difficult to foresee or anticipate because they change frequently.
|
| unfaithful |
Primarily used in the context of romantic relationships to describe someone who cheats or is disloyal.
|
Examples of usage
- He was known for being unreliable, always showing up late.
- The witness was deemed unreliable due to conflicting statements.
- She had a reputation for being unreliable in keeping secrets.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often perceive individuals as 'unreliable' based on past behavior, affecting their relationships and trust levels.
- Cognitive dissonance plays a role; when someone is labeled as unreliable, others may look for evidence supporting that idea, reinforcing it over time.
Technology
- In software engineering, an 'unreliable' application may crash or produce errors, leading developers to prioritize 'reliability' during the design process.
- With the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT), ensuring devices are 'reliable' has become crucial, as users depend on them for daily tasks.
Literature
- Many authors employ 'unreliable narrators' to create suspense and twist plots, leading readers to question the truth of the story.
- Classic novels like 'The Catcher in the Rye' feature protagonists who are perceived as 'unreliable', inviting deeper analysis of their perspectives.
Pop Culture
- In films and TV shows, clearly 'unreliable' characters often heighten tension, making viewers unsure which side to root for.
- Reality shows sometimes highlight 'unreliable' participants for dramatic effect, as their unpredictable behavior captivates audiences.
Origin of 'unreliable'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'unreliable' is formed by adding the prefix 'un-' to 'reliable', which derives from the Latin word 'reliabilis', meaning 'worthy of trust'.
- Its first known use in English dates back to the 19th century, reflecting growing concerns about trust and accountability in various fields.
The word 'unreliable' originated from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'reliable' meaning 'able to be trusted or believed'. The term first appeared in the mid-19th century. The concept of reliability has long been valued in various aspects of life, from personal relationships to scientific research.
See also: reliability, reliable, reliably, reliance, reliant, reliantly, rely, unreliability, unreliableness, unreliably.