Unstable: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that is likely to change or fail suddenly and unexpectedly. Commonly used for objects, situations, or mental states.

• The chair is unstable and may collapse if you sit on it.
• Her mental state became unstable after the traumatic event.

Used for situations, substances, or people that can change rapidly and unpredictably, especially for the worse. Usually has a negative connotation.

• The political situation in the country is highly volatile.
• Her volatile temper often gets her into trouble.

Refers to something that cannot be foreseen or expected; it can be used for both events and behavior.

• The stock market is notoriously unpredictable.
• His moods are so unpredictable that you never know how he'll react.

Describes a lack of confidence or certainty, often used for people who doubt their abilities or feel unsure.

• She always feels insecure about her performance at work.
• The insecure foundation of the building worried the engineers.

Used when someone or something lacks consistency, regularity, or predictability. Often used for behaviors or patterns.

• His erratic driving made the passengers nervous.
• The weather has been quite erratic lately.

Describes something not firm or stable, often physically wavering or shaking.

• He stood up, but his legs were unsteady.
• The ladder felt unsteady as she climbed it.

Used when describing situations, objects, or people that are not secure or likely to change or collapse suddenly.

• The chemical compound is highly unstable and can explode if not handled carefully.
• He's been emotionally unstable since the incident.

Used to describe something that is not firm or strong and may collapse or fail.

• His shaky hands revealed his nervousness.
• The ladder seems a bit shaky. We should get a more stable one.

Best for describing objects that move or shake unsteadily from side to side.

• The wobbly chair needs to be repaired.
• His legs felt wobbly after running the marathon.

Describes physical movement that is not stable or firm, often due to weakness or shakiness.

• She took a few unsteady steps before falling.
• The table is unsteady and wobbles when you lean on it.

Used to describe situations or conditions that are dangerously unstable or insecure.

• They are living in precarious conditions after the earthquake.
• His financial situation is precarious due to job loss.

Best for describing objects or situations that are easily damaged or broken.

• The glass vase is very fragile. Handle it with care.
• Our peace agreement is still fragile and needs constant attention.

This is used to describe something that is not steady or secure and could change or fail at any moment. It is often applied in contexts of physical, mental, or emotional states.

• The ladder looks unstable and might collapse.
• After the accident, she became emotionally unstable.

This term is used in more scientific or medical contexts, referring to something that is likely to change quickly and often.

• The patient's blood pressure is labile and needs constant monitoring.
• Some labile compounds decompose when exposed to light.

Typically used in scientific contexts, it describes a substance that tends to react chemically. In a broader sense, it can describe someone who responds readily or strongly to stimuli.

• Sodium is a highly reactive metal.
• He is a reactive person and often overreacts to minor issues.

This is used to describe something that is not able to be predicted or anticipated. It is often applied to behaviors, events, or outcomes.

• The weather in this region is highly unpredictable.
• His unpredictable behavior makes him difficult to work with.

This word is used to describe something that can change rapidly and unpredictably, often with a negative connotation. It is commonly used for chemicals and situations that are sensitive and can suddenly become dangerous.

• The political situation is very volatile.
• Acetone is a volatile liquid and evaporates easily.

This word refers to something that is temporary or not lasting very long. It is often used in both scientific and everyday situations.

• The pain from the injection was only transient.
• They found a transient solution to the problem.