unpredictable

American  

[uhn-pri-dik-tuh-buhl] / ˌʌn prɪˈdɪk tə bəl /

adjective

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

   an unpredictable occurrence.

   Synonyms:

   uncertain, variable, fitful, erratic

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noun

1. something that is unpredictable.

   the unpredictables of life.

unpredictable British  

/ ˌʌnprɪˈdɪktəbəl /

adjective

1. not capable of being predicted; changeable

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Other Word Forms

• unpredictability noun
• unpredictableness noun
• unpredictably adverb

Etymology

Origin of unpredictable

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

Example Sentences

Don’t miss ‘The world feels unpredictable’: I’m 56.

From MarketWatch

Healthcare is one of the most unpredictable retirement expenses, and fear can lead to being overinsured or overpaying.

From MarketWatch

The four principals’ unmet personal and professional needs play out in unpredictable, funny and warm — as well as shattering — ways.

From Los Angeles Times

The world feels unpredictable these days, especially in Washington, D.C.

From MarketWatch

Add in the fact that there are few sports in the world more chaotic and unpredictable than short track.

From BBC

Related Words

• erratic
• fickle
• uncertain
• unreliable
• unstable