Definition

The condition of being unsteady or not stable, which can refer to physical, emotional, or political situations.

Example

The country's political instability led to widespread protests and uncertainty.

Conversation

Have you noticed the instability in the weather lately?

Yeah, it's been so unpredictable, hasn't it?

I wonder if it affects people's moods too; emotional instability can be tough to handle.

Definitely! It feels like everyone is a bit on edge these days.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Instability → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "stabilis" (from Latin, meaning stable or firm) and the suffix "-ity" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "instability" refers to the state of not being stable or firm.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being combined with 'stable' ('stabilis') to remember that 'instability' means the quality of being unsteady or not firm.

Visually Confused Words