UNSATISFACTORY Synonyms: 177 Similar and Opposite Words

unsatisfactory

adjective

ˌən-ˌsa-təs-ˈfak-t(ə-)rē

Definition of unsatisfactory next

as in unacceptable

falling short of a standard an unsatisfactory first attempt at building a birdhouse

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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 unsatisfactory But for clear-air turbulence pilots still rely on reports from other pilots who have already passed through it—an unsatisfactory arrangement for both parties. —

Burkhard Bilger, New Yorker, 2 Mar. 2026 Jayapal gave me a long, tight hug, and offered a kind though unsatisfactory response. —

Literary Hub, 26 Feb. 2026 The district says the 10-year plan would modernize 159 schools and eliminate all buildings currently rated poor or unsatisfactory. —

Ross Dimattei, CBS News, 26 Feb. 2026 More than likely, Silver’s answer will be unsatisfactory for most. —

Zach Harper, New York Times, 11 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unsatisfactory

Recent Examples of Synonyms for unsatisfactory

Adjective

The takeover will continue until the district meets criteria set by the Texas Education Agency, which include exceeding the state and/or regional average for meeting-grade-level proficiency in reading and math, and ensuring the district has no schools unacceptable ratings for multiple years.

— Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Mar. 2026
To have to come and be in this particular bracket every freaking year is unacceptable.

— Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 24 Mar. 2026