Unsatisfactory
ˌʌnsætɪsˈfæktəri
Definitions
Failing to fulfill expectations or requirements; not acceptable or adequate.
ˌʌnsætɪsˈfæktəri
Not good enough; failing to meet requirements or expectations.
The quality of the product was unsatisfactory.
💡 Simply: Imagine you order a pizza and it arrives cold and with the wrong toppings. That pizza would be unsatisfactory! It didn't meet your expectations for a tasty meal.
👶 For kids: When something is not good enough or doesn't make you happy.
More Examples
The company's response to the complaint was considered unsatisfactory.
His behavior was deemed unsatisfactory by the teacher.
How It's Used
"The company received an unsatisfactory performance review."
"The student's grades were deemed unsatisfactory."
"The customer described the service as unsatisfactory."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From un- (not) + satisfactory. 'Satisfactory' comes from the Latin 'satisfacere', meaning 'to satisfy'.
The word has been used in English since the late 18th century, primarily in formal contexts.
Memory tip
Un- (not) + Satisfactory (good enough). If something is unsatisfactory, it's NOT good enough.
Word Origin
"to satisfy"