Definition

Not meeting expectations or standards; inadequate or poor in quality.

Example

The service at the restaurant was dissatisfactory, leading to a complaint.

Conversation

I was really disappointed with the service at that restaurant.

Yeah, it was quite dissatisfactory for the prices they charge.

I expected much better quality from them.

Same here, I won't be going back anytime soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dissatisfactory → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning not) and "satisfactory" (from Latin "satisfacere", meaning to make sufficient or to satisfy). The word "dissatisfactory" means not sufficient or not satisfying.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('dis-') being added to 'sufficient' or 'satisfying' — that's why dissatisfactory means something that does not meet expectations.

Visually Confused Words