Unusable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unusable
[หสnหjuห.zษ.bษl ]
Definitions
inaccessible
Not able to be used or accessed; not suitable for a particular purpose.
Synonyms
impractical, inaccessible, ineffective.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unusable |
This word is best used to describe something that cannot be used at all, often due to damage or malfunction.
|
| inaccessible |
This word is used when something cannot be easily reached, entered, or used.
|
| impractical |
This word is suited for situations where something is not convenient, efficient, or realistic to use.
|
| ineffective |
This word should be used to describe something that does not produce the desired result or effect.
|
Examples of usage
- The old computer was so slow that it became unusable for modern applications.
- The broken key made the lock unusable.
difficult
Extremely difficult to use or operate, typically due to poor condition or design.
Synonyms
awkward, clumsy, difficult, unwieldy.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unusable |
When something is beyond its useful life or totally inoperative.
|
| difficult |
When something is hard to do, understand, or accomplish.
|
| awkward |
When a situation or action feels uncomfortable or causes embarrassment.
|
| clumsy |
When someone or something moves in a way that lacks grace or efficiency.
|
| unwieldy |
When an object is hard to manage or handle due to its size, shape, or weight.
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Examples of usage
- The instructions were so confusing that the new software felt unusable.
- The road was so bumpy that the car became nearly unusable.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- When people encounter unusable tools or resources, it can lead to frustration and decreased motivation.
- Cognitive dissonance may arise if someone holds onto an unusable item due to sentimental value despite knowing itโs not useful.
- Understanding usability helps in cognitive load management by reducing distractions from non-functional elements.
Technology
- In software development, features that are unusable can undermine the overall user experience and lead to abandonment.
- Accessibility standards aim to reduce the number of unusable elements for individuals with disabilities, ensuring everyone can use technology effectively.
- In product design, frequent usability testing helps identify elements that may become unusable before a product is launched.
Environmental Impact
- Items become unusable after their life cycle ends, leading to waste; recycling and upcycling can mitigate this effect.
- Considered unusable electronics contribute significantly to electronic waste, raising environmental concerns globally.
- Creating products with longevity in mind can reduce the number of items that become unusable quickly.
Business
- In business, unusable products can affect brand reputation and customer trust, leading to financial losses.
- Companies often need to assess their inventory for unusable items to maintain efficient operational practices.
- Market research indicates that consumer dissatisfaction often stems from purchasing unusable products that do not meet expectations.
Origin of 'unusable'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not', and the root word 'usable', which comes from 'use'.
- The concept of usability became significant in the late 20th century with the rise of user-centered design in technology.
- In legal terms, 'unusable' can refer to items that cannot fulfill their intended purpose in contracts.
The word 'unusable' originated in the early 17th century from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'usable' meaning 'able to be used'. It has been used to describe things that are not functional or practical for their intended purpose. Over time, 'unusable' has become a common term in modern language to express the lack of usability or effectiveness of something.
See also: abuse, disuse, disused, misuse, misused, overuse, peruse, reusableness, reuse, reusing, underuse, unused, usability, usable, usage, used, useful, usefully, usefulness, useless, uselessness, users, using, usual, utensil, utilize.