Unreliably: meaning, definitions and examples

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unreliably

[ˌʌnrɪˈlaɪəbli ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

In a manner that cannot be trusted or relied upon.

Word	Description / Examples
unreliably	This word is used when something or someone fails to perform consistently and can't be trusted to do the expected task. It's often used for systems, machines, or services. The internet connection works unreliably during bad weather.
undependably	This word is often used to describe someone or something you can't depend on. It suggests a broader sense of unreliability and can be applied to both personal and professional contexts. He acts undependably, often forgetting to keep his promises.
untrustworthily	This term carries a strong negative connotation. It is used to describe someone who cannot be trusted due to their behavior or past actions. It's less common in usage. The mechanic behaved untrustworthily, trying to charge for unnecessary repairs.
inconsistently	Use this term when describing actions, behaviors, or outcomes that vary frequently and lack a steady pattern. It applies to both people and processes. She performs inconsistently in her assignments, sometimes doing well and other times poorly.

The prefix 'un-' means 'not', showing the opposite of the root word 'reliable'.
The root 'rely' comes from the Latin 'reliāre', which means 'to tie back' or 'to depend on'.
The word has been in use since the early 19th century, emphasizing changing perceptions of trust.

Trust is a crucial element in relationships; when someone is described as unreliable, it can lead to emotional stress.
People may label others as unreliable due to past experiences that showed a consistent lack of dependability.
The perception of reliability often affects teamwork and group dynamics, influencing collaboration and success.

In literature and film, unreliable narrators are often used to create suspense or surprise, engaging audiences by challenging their perceptions.
Songs often explore themes of untrustworthiness in relationships, highlighting how 'unreliability' can hurt deep emotional connections.
Several novels address themes of unreliable characters, calling into question the concepts of truth and trust.

In technology, an unreliably compiled app can lead to user frustration and poor reviews, impacting its success.
Weather forecasts are a common example of how information can be seen as unreliable if predictions frequently miss the mark.
Companies strive for reliability in their products to build trust and customer loyalty, contrasting with those viewed as unreliable.

An unreliable friend may repeatedly forget plans or make promises they can't keep, leading to disappointment.
Over time, reliability can shape reputation; being called unreliable might lead others to avoid trusting you in future situations.
Communication plays a key role; discussing perceived unreliability can clear misunderstandings in relationships.

Translations of the word "unreliably" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pouco confiável

🇮🇳 अविश्वसनीय रूप से

🇩🇪 unzuverlässig

🇮🇩 tidak dapat diandalkan

🇺🇦 ненадійно

🇵🇱 niewiarygodnie

🇯🇵 信頼性のない

🇫🇷 de manière peu fiable

🇪🇸 de manera poco fiable

🇹🇷 güvenilmez bir şekilde

🇰🇷 신뢰할 수 없게

🇸🇦 بشكل غير موثوق

🇨🇿 nespolehlivě

🇸🇰 nespoľahlivo

🇨🇳 不可靠地

🇸🇮 nezanesljivo

🇮🇸 óáreiðanlegt

🇰🇿 сенімсіз түрде

🇬🇪 არამყარი

🇦🇿 etibarsızca

🇲🇽 de manera poco fiable