sustainable

American  

[suh-stey-nuh-buhl] / səˈsteɪ nə bəl /

adjective

1. capable of being supported or upheld, as by having its weight borne from below.

2. pertaining to a system that maintains its own viability by using techniques that allow for continual reuse.

   sustainable agriculture. Aquaculture is a sustainable alternative to overfishing.

3. able to be maintained or kept going, as an action or process.

   a sustainable negotiation between the two countries.

4. able to be confirmed or upheld.

   a sustainable decision.

5. able to be supported as with the basic necessities or sufficient funds.

   a sustainable life.

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sustainable British  

/ səˈsteɪnəbəl /

adjective

1. capable of being sustained

2. (of economic development, energy sources, etc) capable of being maintained at a steady level without exhausting natural resources or causing severe ecological damage

   sustainable development

3. (of economic growth) non-inflationary

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Other Word Forms

• nonsustainability noun
• nonsustainable adjective
• sustainability noun
• unsustainable adjective

Etymology

Origin of sustainable

sustain + -able

Example Sentences

"Accountability and justice for all Syrians is vital to ensure a successful and sustainable political settlement" following the sudden downfall of Assad's rule in 2024, the foreign secretary said.

From BBC

“Elevated inflation expectations may impede a sustainable slowdown in inflation,” the central bank warned.

From The Wall Street Journal

Indeed, the retreat of climate catastrophism has made room for a less strident but more sustainable climate realism, focused on innovation and the commercialization of low-carbon technologies.

From The Wall Street Journal

They use a range of flours that are farmed using sustainable methods that prioritise soil health.

From BBC

Elliott may be betting that Nielsen’s experience in company turnarounds could cement a sustainable recovery for the brand.

From Barron's

Related Words

• continual
• continuous
• viable