Definition

In a way that is not steady or secure, often leading to changes or difficulties.

Example

The tower swayed unstably in the strong winds, making everyone nervous.

Conversation

I noticed that the chair wobbles unstably when I sit on it.

Really? That sounds dangerous!

Yeah, I feel like I'm going to fall off any second.

You should probably get a new one before it breaks!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unstably → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "stable" (from Latin "stabilis", meaning standing firm or steady) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "unstably" means in a manner that is not steady or firm.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'steady' ('stable') to remember that 'unstably' means not steady.

Visually Confused Words