unsafe

adjective

un·​safe ˌən-ˈsāf 

unsafer; unsafest

: not safe: such as

a

: able or likely to cause harm, damage, or loss

water that is unsafe to drink

unsafe driving habits

unsafe levels of lead

b

: not giving protection from danger, harm, or loss

an unsafe vehicle

unsafe working conditions

c

: not protected from danger, harm, or loss

feeling frightened and unsafe

d

: likely to take risks : not careful

unsafe drivers

Synonyms

• dangerous
• grave
• grievous
• hazardous
• jeopardizing
• menacing
• parlous
• perilous
• risky
• serious
• threatening
• unhealthy
• venturesome

Examples of unsafe in a Sentence

workers are forbidden from engaging in unsafe activities on company time

people who have a record of being unsafe drivers usually have to pay higher insurance premiums

Recent Examples on the Web

Supporters of Galloway’s bill argued that the city’s enforcement of its ban has been lax, forcing residents and business owners near encampments to confront people experiencing mental illness, using drugs or making customers feel unsafe. —Sarah Cutler, Idaho Statesman, 8 Apr. 2025

For home-renovation questions, Google’s AI may give advice that’s unsafe or simply inaccurate, such as recommending specific products that don’t exist, McBride said. —Bloomberg, Mercury News, 7 Apr. 2025

Transpire: Promote visible audits, participate in daily safety dialogues and correct unsafe behaviors in real time to enact real change. —Andreza Araujo, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025

However, experts warn that the therapy may not be effective and could be unsafe. —Jessica Swirble, Verywell Health, 4 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for unsafe

• vouchsafe
• chafe
• safe
• waif