What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
precarious
Example
The company's financial situation is precarious, and they may have to lay off employees. [precarious: adjective]
Example
She balanced the vase on the edge of the table, but it was in a precarious position. [precarious: adjective]
unstable
Example
The ladder was unstable and wobbled when I climbed it. [unstable: adjective]
Example
The political situation in the country is unstable, and there may be protests. [unstable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unstable is more commonly used than precarious in everyday language, and it covers a wider range of contexts. Precarious is less common and is often used in formal or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between precarious and unstable?
Precarious is typically associated with a more formal tone, while unstable is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
