INSTABILITIES Synonyms: 21 Similar and Opposite Words

instability

noun

ˌin(t)-stə-ˈbi-lə-tē

Definition of instability

as in unsteadiness

the quality or state of not being firmly fixed in position the instability of the bridge became tragically apparent when it suddenly collapsed

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of instability That instability rewards employees who can re-learn quickly over employees who mastered one static system. — Terdawn Deboe, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026 This fluid instability has long been suspected on the sun, but these observations are the first time they have ever been directly seen like this. — Chelsea Gohd, Space.com, 10 Aug. 2026 Beijing’s wish to avoid instability in the Korean Peninsula reflects its desire to stabilize its relations with the United States and avoid any potential for escalation that could lead to direct conflict. — Zheng Jiyong, Foreign Affairs, 10 Aug. 2026 Temporary contracts add to instability, McAlister wrote, and create a culture of silence around employee mistreatment and toxic hierarchies. — The Editors Of Artnews, ARTnews.com, 10 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for instability

Recent Examples of Synonyms for instability

Noun

Dogs may also experience unsteadiness or lack of coordination, and in severe cases, seizures or coma may occur.

— Gina Kalsi, PEOPLE, 13 July 2026
Unlike dizziness — which causes lightheadedness or unsteadiness — vertigo feels more like spinning.

— Lindsey Bever, Washington Post, 27 May 2026

Definition of unsteadiness

Noun

But an Iranian diplomat promptly rejected this, saying such a visit can only come after a final deal — a denial that highlighted the precariousness of the ongoing negotiations.

— ABC News, ABC News, 24 June 2026
The shift isn’t merely spatial but symbolic, representing what Yeon sees as the precariousness of human civilization itself.

— Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 16 May 2026

Definition of precariousness

Noun

The deeper story here is growing domestic insecurity — inside both China and the US — that’s shaping diplomatic efforts and pulling both countries deeper into their own corners.

— Andy Browne, semafor.com, 11 Aug. 2026
Online, influencers in the looksmaxxing space have leveraged other men's insecurities to enormous fame while doling out aesthetic advice with little, if any, credentials.

— Charles Trepany, USA Today, 7 Aug. 2026

Definition of insecurity

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in spite of

instability

install

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Style

“Instability.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/instability. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of instability

noun

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