unlivable

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: //ʌnˈlɪvəbl//

KK: /ʌnˈlɪvəbl/

adjective

Definition

Not suitable for living in; a place that cannot be lived in due to poor conditions or safety issues.

Example

The building was declared unlivable after the fire damaged it severely.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Comparative: more unlivable

Superlative: most unlivable

Conversation

Did you hear about that apartment they were renting on Maple Street?

Yeah, I heard it was completely unlivable because of the plumbing issues.

That's a shame! It looked nice in the pictures.

I know, right? It’s always disappointing when a place turns out to be unlivable.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

inhabitable

uninhabitable

impractical

Antonyms

livable

habitable

suitable

Root Explanation

Unlivable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "livable" (from Latin "vita" meaning life, combined with the suffix "-able" meaning capable of). The word "unlivable" means not capable of supporting life or unsuitable for living.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'capable of life' ('livable') — that's why unlivable means not suitable for living.

Visually Confused Words

unpliable

unlovable

undivable