Definition

Something that cannot be continued or maintained over time without causing harm to the environment or society.

Example

The company's practices are considered unsustainable because they deplete natural resources.

Conversation

I read an article about climate change and it mentioned some practices are unsustainable.

That's true; we really need to change our habits to protect the environment.

Exactly! It’s scary to think how unsustainable some industries are right now.

Yeah, we have to find better ways to live and work for the future.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unsustainable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "sustain" (from Latin "sustinere", meaning to hold up or support) and "-able" (meaning capable of). The word "unsustainable" means not capable of being maintained or supported over time.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being able to 'hold up' ('sustinere') something 'capable' ('-able') — that's why unsustainable means something that cannot be maintained.

Visually Confused Words