Synonyms for

Unreliable

Verb / ˌʌnrɪˈlaɪʌbʌl / / ˌʌnri:ˈlaɪʌbʌl / Another word for unreliable — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

not able to be trusted or depended on

Synonyms & similar words

dependable treacherous reliable undependable untrustworthy undependable inconsistent flaky fickle capricious unpredictable shifty dishonest treacherous deceitful false untruthful lying dodgy sketchy questionable suspect doubtful ambiguous

Synonyms by register

Formal

questionable dubious inconsistent fallible

Informal

shaky iffy sketchy wonky

Literary

capricious mercurial fickle

Antonyms

reliable dependable trustworthy steadfast constant faithful sure

Common collocations

  • unreliable narrator
  • unreliable source
  • unreliable witness
  • unreliable data
  • unreliable information
  • unreliable car
  • unreliable friend

Word family

noun unreliability
adjective unreliable
adverb unreliably

Usage note

Often used to describe people, systems, or information that cannot be depended upon. Be mindful of the context, as 'unreliable' can imply a lack of integrity or simply a lack of consistency.

Example sentences

  1. The old car was unreliable and often broke down on the side of the road.
  2. I can't rely on him to show up on time, he's very unreliable.
  3. The witness testimony was unreliable and couldn't be trusted.
  4. The website's information was unreliable and full of errors.
  5. The stock market can be unreliable and unpredictable at times.

Quotes

  • 'You don't get another chance. Life is no Nintendo game.' - Eminem
  • 'Life is like a camera, focus on the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don't work out, take another shot.' - Unknown
  • 'The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.' - Eleanor Roosevelt

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