WordGarden.iounsafe
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ʌnsˈeɪf/
US
- /ənˈseɪf/
Meanings
Adjective
not safe, or likely to cause harm, danger, or serious problems
in computing, lacking safety checks or allowing operations that can cause memory or system errors
Beyond the definition
Something that is unsafe can hurt you or put you at risk. A wobbly ladder is unsafe to climb. An area with wild animals might be unsafe for hiking alone. It is not only about physical danger. A situation can also be unsafe if it may cause emotional harm or financial loss. You might describe a relationship as unsafe if it is full of manipulation and control.
Think of it this way: safe means protected, while unsafe means that protection is missing, so something bad could happen. A lifeguard might shout, "Unsafe conditions!" when the waves are too rough for swimming. The word often acts as a warning and suggests that you should be careful.
The word "unsafe" describes something that is not safe and may cause harm. It signals danger and suggests a situation where someone could get hurt or suffer loss. While we often think of "unsafe" in terms of physical hazards, such as an unsafe building with faulty wiring or an unsafe neighborhood with high crime rates, the word can also be used in less physical situations.
An unsafe practice is one that carries significant risk, such as driving under the influence or ignoring safety regulations at work. An unsafe environment can be a place where you feel threatened, vulnerable, or exposed to harm—this could be a physically dangerous location, but also an emotionally abusive relationship or a workplace with rampant harassment.
The level of danger implied by "unsafe" can vary greatly. A slightly wobbly chair might be "a little unsafe," while a collapsing bridge is profoundly so. It's often used as a warning: "This area is unsafe – do not enter!" or to describe something that needs immediate attention: "The brakes on this car are unsafe and need repair."
Sometimes, "unsafe" can even refer to abstract concepts. For example, you might say an investment strategy is unsafe if it carries too much risk of financial loss. Or a person's behavior could be described as unsafe if it's reckless or irresponsible.
Ultimately, "unsafe" highlights the presence of potential harm and calls for caution, protection, or intervention to mitigate those risks. It's a word that demands attention and encourages us to prioritize security and well-being.
Examples
- 1
Structural safety
The bridge was closed after inspectors said it was unsafe.
- 2
Slippery surfaces
These stairs get unsafe when they're wet.
- 3
Product warning
The label says the cleaner is unsafe for pets.
- 4
Swimming risk
It's unsafe to swim in the river after heavy rain.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Workplace conditions
Workers refused to enter the building because of unsafe conditions.
- 6
Medical advice
The doctor said it can be unsafe to mix those medicines.
- 7
Speaking up
She felt unsafe speaking up at work after her manager yelled at her.
- Patternfeel unsafe + -ing
feel at risk or not protected while doing it
- 8
Data security
The company was criticized for storing customer data in an unsafe way.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- unsafeadjective