The word Unprofitable (adjective) describes something that does not yield financial gain, benefit, or positive return, often resulting in loss or wasted effort. In this guide, you’ll learn the full definition, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and real-life examples of how to use Unprofitable correctly in sentences.
Unprofitable Explained in Depth
A complete and detailed guide to the word Unprofitable including meaning, definition, examples, etymology, synonyms, and antonyms.
Meanings of Unprofitable
Unprofitable means lacking financial gain, reward, or benefit, and often involves wasted time, money, or effort. It can describe a business, decision, investment, or activity that fails to generate success or value.
Definition
Unprofitable refers to yielding no profit or benefit, often resulting in a financial or practical loss. It suggests that the resources invested do not bring any worthwhile return or outcome. For example, running a shop with high costs and low sales is unprofitable.
Etymology
The word unprofitable is formed by combining the prefix “un-” meaning “not” with “profitable,” which comes from the Latin word “profitabilis” meaning “advantageous” or “useful.”
Example Sentences
- The business closed down after several unprofitable years.
- Spending time arguing over trivial issues is unprofitable.
- That investment turned out to be unprofitable due to poor market conditions.
Unprofitable Synonyms
- Unrewarding
- Loss-making
- Fruitless
- Wasteful
- Nonviable
- Unproductive
- Ineffective
- Inoperative
- Unlucrative
- Failing
Unprofitable Antonyms
- Profitable
- Lucrative
- Rewarding
- Beneficial
- Gainful
- Advantageous
- Productive
- Fruitful
- Successful
- Money-making
FAQs about Unprofitable
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the word “Unprofitable”
What does “unprofitable” actually mean?
“Unprofitable” means something that does not bring financial gain, reward, or benefit and often leads to loss or wasted effort.
Is “unprofitable” only used in business contexts?
No, it can also be used to describe time, activities, or efforts that fail to bring any useful result or benefit.
Can a successful company have unprofitable products?
Yes, even successful companies may have individual products or services that are unprofitable and get discontinued.
How is “unprofitable” different from “unsuccessful”?
“Unprofitable” focuses on financial or practical loss, while “unsuccessful” is a broader term indicating failure to achieve goals.