What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dependable
Example
I always turn to my dependable friend for advice. [dependable: adjective]
Example
The car is dependable and rarely breaks down. [dependable: adjective]
Example
The newspaper is a dependable source of information. [dependable: adjective]
unreliable
Example
The weather forecast is unreliable, so I always check multiple sources. [unreliable: adjective]
Example
He's an unreliable employee who frequently calls in sick. [unreliable: adjective]
Example
The witness was deemed unreliable due to inconsistencies in their story. [unreliable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dependable is more commonly used than unreliable in everyday language. Dependable is a positive trait that is valued in many contexts, while unreliable is a negative trait that is generally avoided.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dependable and unreliable?
Dependable is more formal than unreliable. Dependable is often used in professional or academic settings, while unreliable is more commonly used in casual conversation.
