unsatisfactory
Americanadjective
adjective
Other Word Forms
- unsatisfactorily adverb
- unsatisfactoriness noun
Etymology
Origin of unsatisfactory
First recorded in 1630–40; un- 1 + satisfactory
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
International Cricket Council referee Jeff Crowe is yet to deliver his assessment of the pitch, which if handed an "unsatisfactory" rating would see the venue slapped with a demerit point.
From Barron's • Dec. 29, 2025
If they don’t respond on time or if their response is unsatisfactory, they can be penalized.
From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 20, 2025
If, like my wife, you find that frustrating and unsatisfactory, the brand-name medical center offers you a pile of word jerky to chew on while you get your checkbook out.
From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 21, 2025
Her daughter gave her an unsatisfactory reply: “Mom, nobody knows.”
From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 17, 2025
Though this exchange did not remain in my mind for long, I was puzzled, and even more so by the twins’ unsatisfactory manner when I asked about it.
From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
