unsustainable

adjective

un·​sus·​tain·​able ˌən-sə-ˈstā-nə-bəl 

: not capable of being prolonged or continued : not sustainable

unsustainable agricultural practices

unsustainable growth

unsustainability

ˌən-sə-ˌstā-nə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

unsustainably

ˌən-sə-ˈstā-nə-blē 

adverb

an unsustainably high rate of growth

Examples of unsustainable in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

When that proved unsustainable, the association hired a landscaping company. — Josh Bergeron, Charlotte Observer, 24 July 2026

Everyone needs to get serious about this unsustainable budget, and, in a meeting scheduled for Monday, adopt a clear and concise plan to save RTD from its current death spiral. — The Denver Post Editorial Board, Denver Post, 24 July 2026

While the health need is great, the near-term financial pressure feels unsustainable. — Bryan Sivak, Fortune, 23 July 2026

Researchers have warned unsustainable use of the Rio Grande — which originates in Colorado and extends into Mexico — threatens water security for millions of people. — ABC News, 22 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1677, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unsustainable

• attainable
• explainable
• maintainable
• obtainable
• sustainable
• ascertainable
• unattainable
• unexplainable
• unobtainable
• trainable