Synonyms for

Undesirable

Verb / ˌʌndɪˈzaɪrʌbʌl / Another word for undesirable — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Unwanted or unpleasant.

Synonyms & similar words

unwanted unsuitable desirable unwanted unwelcome uninviting unappealing unattractive unpopular repellent distasteful offensive disgusting objectionable abhorrent repugnant odious detestable displeasing unpalatable unpleasant disagreeable unsatisfactory

Synonyms by register

Formal

objectionable unwelcome unwanted inadvisable

Informal

icky yucky no good a drag

Literary

bane pestilent noisome

Antonyms

desirable welcome wanted acceptable pleasing advantageous beneficial

Common collocations

  • highly undesirable
  • undesirable elements
  • undesirable consequences
  • undesirable behavior
  • undesirable outcome
  • undesirable effects
  • undesirable person

Word family

noun undesirability
adverb undesirably

Usage note

This word generally carries a negative connotation, implying something that is not wanted or is actively disliked. It is suitable for most registers.

Example sentences

  1. The moldy bread was undesirable to eat.
  2. The rainy weather made the beach trip undesirable.
  3. The job offer was undesirable because of the low salary.
  4. The rude behavior was undesirable in a social setting.
  5. The strict rules made the school an undesirable place to be.

Quotes

  • 'The undesirable things are the mountains of waste material that every country produces in peace and war.' - Albert Speer
  • 'The undesirable and sometimes even dangerous consequences of exposure to crime movies and thrillers are particularly marked in young people.' - Jacques Chirac
  • 'The essence of morality is a questioning about morality; and the decisive move of human life is to use ceaselessly all light to look for the origin of the opposition between good and evil.' - Georges Bataille

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