unsatisfactory

adjective

un·​sat·​is·​fac·​to·​ry ˌən-ˌsa-təs-ˈfak-t(ə-)rē 

: not satisfactory

unsatisfactorily

ˌən-ˌsa-təs-ˈfak-t(ə-)rə-lē 

adverb

unsatisfactoriness

ˌən-ˌsa-təs-ˈfak-t(ə-)rē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of unsatisfactory

• unacceptable
• poor
• wrong
• lame
• bad
• deficient

Examples of unsatisfactory in a Sentence

He was fired for unsatisfactory performance.

an unsatisfactory first attempt at building a birdhouse

Recent Examples on the Web

State records show that the Wave Pool at McDonald Park was rated unsatisfactory in May after inspectors found that equipment had been changed without the state’s approval. — Verónica Egui Brito, Miami Herald, 11 Aug. 2026

The redhead, Betty Mayfield, is the most unsatisfactory aspect of the book. — Literary Hub, 23 July 2026

That lack of clarity has led public-health officials to offer somewhat unsatisfactory advice on how to keep yourself safe. — Nicholas Florko, The Atlantic, 11 July 2026

Lacking exposure to new knowledge can feel quite unsatisfactory. — Kate Wieczorek, Forbes.com, 1 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1650, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unsatisfactory

• factory
• manufactory
• olfactory
• refractory