unpredictable

[uhn-pri-dik-tuh-buhl]

adjective

1. not predictable; not to be foreseen or foretold.

   an unpredictable occurrence.

   Synonyms: uncertain, variable, fitful, erratic

noun

1. something that is unpredictable.

   the unpredictables of life.

unpredictable

/ ˌʌnprɪˈdɪktəbəl /

adjective

1. not capable of being predicted; changeable

Other Word Forms

• unpredictability noun
• unpredictableness noun
• unpredictably adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of unpredictable¹

First recorded in 1855–60; un- ¹ + predictable

Example Sentences

They heard testimony of unpredictable behaviour from intoxicated patients, with staff also regularly experiencing violence and harassment from bystanders.

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It’s not that Allen thinks she’s immune to criticism, but that she understands human behavior is far more unpredictable and messy than the internet’s echo chambers allow for.

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The bank noted that the global economy showed resilience and continued to grow despite unpredictable US trade policies and increased fiscal concerns.

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But the explosion is unpredictable and often delayed - officials told the BBC that many of the injuries occurred when children peeped inside the pipe to check just as the blast happened.

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Although close allies of the US, they are in for an unpredictable time – and will want to lock in tariff terms and investments.

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Related Words

• erratic 
• fickle 
• uncertain 
• unreliable 
• unstable