Unusable

/ʌnˈjuzəbəl/ adjective

Definition

Something that cannot be used or is not fit for using because it's broken, damaged, or inappropriate.

Etymology

Combination of the prefix 'un-' (meaning not) and 'usable' (able to be used). 'Usable' comes from Old French 'user' meaning 'to use.' The 'un-' prefix negates the capability.

Kelly Says

It's interesting that we needed a whole word for 'not usable' instead of just saying 'not good'—this shows how language creates specific words when we frequently need to describe something's broken or damaged state. Many words with 'un-' actually change meaning slightly rather than just adding 'not.'

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