UNDESIRABLE Synonyms: 128 Similar and Opposite Words

undesirable

adjective

as in unpleasant

bad, harmful, or unpleasant The drug has some undesirable side effects. This decision may have undesirable consequences.

Related Words

Relevance

Dissimilar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of undesirable Elimination from the Champions League, though undesirable, may actually have a positive knock-on effect, providing free midweeks for the remainder of the season. —

Chris Waugh, New York Times, 13 Mar. 2026 More than 50 percent of cat owners report undesirable scratching. —

The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Feb. 2026 In Paladino’s case, the rationale is distaste for density and perceived undesirable new tenants. —

New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 27 Feb. 2026 For example, putting lots more residents on the outskirts of urban cores can result in more clogged freeways and undesirable commuting times. —

Greg Rosalsky, NPR, 24 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for undesirable

Recent Examples of Synonyms for undesirable

Adjective

To avoid unpleasant digestive side effects, start by adding 1 tablespoon (or less) to your recipes.

— Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 10 Apr. 2026
Dahl’s books are fanciful and imaginative, but also dark, cynical, and mean (and, unfortunately, often reflected his real-life ugliness), spinning stories in which gruesome and unpleasant fates befell rotten kids, and adults were frequently selfish, cruel, and not to be trusted.

— Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, 10 Apr. 2026