unsteady

/' n'stedi/

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Word: Unsteady

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition: The word "unsteady" describes something that is not firmly or solidly positioned. It can also refer to something that is shaky, unstable, or likely to change.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "unsteady" to describe physical objects, like a ladder or a table that wobbles.
• You can also describe actions or states, like how someone walks or speaks if they are not steady.

Examples:

1. Physical instability: "She climbed carefully up the unsteady ladder."
2. Movement: "His unsteady walk made it clear he needed help."
3. Voice: "Her voice was unsteady as she tried to speak in front of the audience."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "unsteady" can be used metaphorically to describe emotions or situations that are not stable. For example: - "The economy has been unsteady this year, causing many businesses to worry."

Word Variants:

• Unsteadily (adverb): Describes how something is done in an unsteady manner.
  • Example: "He walked unsteadily after getting off the roller coaster."
• Unsteadiness (noun): The state of being unsteady.
  • Example: "The unsteadiness of the table made it hard to eat dinner."

Different Meanings:

1. Physical: Referring to objects or movements that are shaky or unstable.
2. Emotional: Describing feelings or situations that are fluctuating or unpredictable.

Synonyms:

• Shaky
• Wobbly
• Unstable
• Faltering
• Erratic

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no specific idioms that use "unsteady," you can use phrases like: - "On shaky ground" – meaning in a situation that is uncertain or risky. - Example: "After the scandal, the politician was on shaky ground."

Summary:

In summary, "unsteady" is a useful word to describe anything that is not stable, whether it’s an object, a person's movement, or a situation.

Academic

Adjective

1. not firmly or solidly positioned
   • climbing carefully up the unsteady ladder
   • an unfirm stance
2. subject to change or variation
   • her unsteady walk
   • his hand was unsteady as he poured the wine
   • an unsteady voice

Synonyms

• unfirm