Synonyms of instability

instability

noun

ˌin(t)-stə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• unsteadiness
• precariousness
• unstableness
• insecurity
• shakiness
• looseness
• unsoundness
• slackness
• changeability
• mutability
• laxness
• inconstancy
• insubstantiality

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• stability
• security
• steadiness
• fastness
• soundness
• fixedness
• firmness
• substantiality

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of instability

Iran, like Israel, has every incentive to pursue policies that perpetuate instability. — Marc Lynch, Foreign Affairs, 18 Aug. 2026

Types of chaos The Indian researchers focused two types of chaos typically seen in fluids, the Kelvin-Helmholtz instability and the Rayleigh-Taylor instability. — Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 18 Aug. 2026

The outbreak has gained momentum since it was declared on May 15, as weak health infrastructure, community resistance and instability hinder the effort to identify and respond to cases. — CNN Money, 17 Aug. 2026

Thousands of migrants from across Africa and beyond travel to Morocco each year, fleeing conflict, poverty and instability and seeking a route into Europe. — ABC News, 16 Aug. 2026