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Synonyms

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

noun

  1. something that is unpredictable.

    the unpredictables of life.

unpredictable British  
/ ˌʌnprɪˈdɪktəbəl /

adjective

  1. not capable of being predicted; changeable

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • unpredictability noun
  • unpredictableness noun
  • unpredictably adverb

Etymology

Origin of unpredictable

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

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.

"It also shows how urgently we need to build resilience so these birds can withstand unpredictable shocks," Thompson added.

From BBC

Everybody wants it and the stage of women's football now, it's just so unpredictable.

From BBC

“What catches on is completely unpredictable, there’s almost a mysterious alchemy to it. What’s clear is this: The regime hasn’t pacified them.”

From The Wall Street Journal

But what is the everyday reality of living with the often unpredictable condition?

From BBC

The clash comes at a critical juncture for Washington’s tense dealings with Havana, showing how quickly sensitive discussions can be overtaken by unpredictable actors on the margins.

From The Wall Street Journal