What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
treacherous
Example
The mountain trail was treacherous, with steep drops and loose rocks. [treacherous: adjective]
Example
He proved to be a treacherous friend, betraying my trust when I needed him the most. [treacherous: adjective]
Example
The treacherous road conditions made it difficult for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles. [treacherous: adjective]
unreliable
Example
He is an unreliable witness, often changing his story and contradicting himself. [unreliable: adjective]
Example
The old car was unreliable, breaking down frequently and requiring constant repairs. [unreliable: adjective]
Example
The weather forecast was unreliable, predicting sunshine but delivering rain instead. [unreliable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unreliable is a more common word than treacherous in everyday language, and it covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between treacherous and unreliable?
Both treacherous and unreliable are formal words that are appropriate for use in serious or professional contexts.
