unsafe
5 synonyms and 0 antonyms for unsafe, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Likely to cause harm or injury; not safe.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use unsafe
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From un- ("not") plus safe.
Full origin of unsafe →Frequently asked questions
What does “unsafe” mean?
The word “unsafe” means likely to cause harm or injury; not safe. In plain terms, dangerous or risky, whether describing a place, activity, or feeling.
How do you pronounce “unsafe”?
“Unsafe” is pronounced uhn-SAYF (/ʌnˈseɪf/ in IPA).
How do you use “unsafe” in a sentence?
Here is “unsafe” used in a sentence: “The old bridge was declared unsafe for vehicles.”
What part of speech is “unsafe”?
“Unsafe” is an adjective.
Is “unsafe” a common word?
“Unsafe” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between unsafe and dangerous?
Unsafe describes a condition or situation that is likely to cause harm, often due to a lack of proper precautions, such as unsafe wiring or an unsafe building. Dangerous is broader and can describe inherent risk in something, such as a dangerous animal, regardless of whether precautions are missing.
Can unsafe describe behavior as well as objects or places?
Yes, unsafe can describe physical conditions like unsafe roads or structures, as well as behavior, such as unsafe driving or unsafe practices, whenever the action is likely to cause harm or injury.
What is a common phrase using unsafe in workplace contexts?
A common phrase is 'unsafe working conditions,' referring to an environment where hazards are likely to cause injury to employees. This phrase is frequently used in health and safety regulations and reporting.