Definition

In a way that does not produce profit or financial gain.

Example

The company operated unprofitably for several years before closing down.

Conversation

I think I spent my entire weekend working on that project.

Really? Was it productive?

Not really, it felt like I was doing it unprofitably the whole time.

That’s frustrating! Sometimes you just need a break to recharge.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unprofitably → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "profit" (from Latin "proficere", meaning to advance or make progress) and "-ably" (meaning in a manner). The word "unprofitably" means in a manner that does not lead to profit or benefit.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') leading to 'advancement' ('profit') in a way that is 'in a manner' ('-ably') that does not yield any gain.

Visually Confused Words