Definition

Not suitable or safe to breathe in; cannot be inhaled without causing harm.

Example

The air in the factory was filled with unbreathable fumes, making it dangerous for workers.

Conversation

Have you noticed how the air feels so unbreathable in the city lately?

Yeah, it’s really bad, especially during rush hour.

I can hardly take a deep breath without coughing.

Same here! We should find some cleaner places to hang out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unbreathable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "breathe" (from Old English "brēathian", meaning to inhale or exhale air) and "-able" (meaning capable of). The word "unbreathable" means not capable of being breathed or not allowing for breathing.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being combined with the ability to 'breathe' — that's why unbreathable means something that cannot be breathed.

Visually Confused Words