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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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of instability
Venezuela was designated in 2021 for TPS — a temporary immigration status granted to nationals of countries facing unsafe conditions for return — due to a severe humanitarian crisis marked by political and economic instability, widespread human rights abuses, and high levels of violence.
—
Verónica Egui Brito, Miami Herald, 31 July 2025
The changes come as the company is struggling to maintain growth as consumers struggle with economic uncertainty, political instability and trade wars launched this year by President Trump.
—Alexander Coolidge, The Enquirer, 30 July 2025
The rescue operation shifted to a recovery effort due to the complexity and instability of the situation.
—Maritza Dominguez, AZCentral.com, 29 July 2025
This flexible approach to employment—embracing job changes and flexible gig work—reflects not only a desire for varied experiences, but a strategic response to rapid change, uncertainty, and a lifetime of economic instability.
—Adam Erace, Fortune, 27 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for instability
Verónica Egui Brito, Miami Herald, 31 July 2025
The changes come as the company is struggling to maintain growth as consumers struggle with economic uncertainty, political instability and trade wars launched this year by President Trump.
—Alexander Coolidge, The Enquirer, 30 July 2025
The rescue operation shifted to a recovery effort due to the complexity and instability of the situation.
—Maritza Dominguez, AZCentral.com, 29 July 2025
This flexible approach to employment—embracing job changes and flexible gig work—reflects not only a desire for varied experiences, but a strategic response to rapid change, uncertainty, and a lifetime of economic instability.
—Adam Erace, Fortune, 27 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for instability
Recent Examples of Synonyms for instability
Noun
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The episode underscores the precariousness of elite status in Putin’s Russia—and the unpredictable consequences for those who lose the president’s trust.—
Preston Fore,
Fortune,
7 July 2025
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Housing costs, especially for renters, have pushed Florida families into financial precariousness more than any other household expense, said United Way of Florida CEO Melissa Nelson.—
Max Klaver,
Miami Herald,
11 June 2025
Noun
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For instance, in a competitive, uncertain job market, young men may struggle with financial insecurity, underemployment, and lack of purpose, says Pain.—
Sherri Gordon,
Parents,
29 July 2025
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The vast majority are women, many of whom must reduce work hours or leave jobs entirely, leading to mental health issues, burnout, and long-term financial insecurity.—
Jon Stojan,
USA Today,
24 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Instability.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/instability. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.
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