Reading Theme:
Stability: Meaning, Examples, and Usage (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：steadiness (stability)
stability
/stəˈbɪləti/
n.
When something stays the same over time and doesn't easily change, break, or fall.
steadiness
➕
/ˈstɛdɪnəs/
n.
The quality of being stable, firm, or unlikely to change or collapse.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'stabilis' (steady, firm) + '-ity' (quality); meaning steadiness.
💡 Mnemonic
Stability sounds like 'stable city' — a city that stands firm and unchanging.
📖 Example
My friend has been saving money for years to buy a house, and she says the stability of a fixed job gives her peace of mind.
My friend has been saving money for years to buy a house, and she says the stability of a fixed job gives her peace of mind.
🔗 Collocations
financial stability – Financial stability means having a steady income and low risk of loss.
emotional stability – Emotional stability refers to a calm and balanced mental state.
structural stability – Structural stability is the ability of a building or object to withstand loads without failing.
🔄 Synonyms
steadiness (n.) – The quality of being steady and reliable.
firmness (n.) – The quality of being solid and unyielding.
security (n.) – The state of being free from danger or risk.
🚫 Antonyms
instability (n.) – Lack of stability; tendency to change or collapse.
volatility (n.) – Likelihood to change rapidly and unpredictably.
unsteadiness (n.) – The quality of being unsteady or shaky.
🌱 Derivatives
stabilize (v.) – To make stable.
stabilization (n.) – The process of making something stable.
stable (adj.) – Firm and steady; not likely to change or move.
📖 Cultural Story
Stability derives from Latin 'stabilis' (steady), rooted in 'stare' (to stand). In modern usage, it describes systems that resist change, from economics to engineering.
Meaning 2：emotional steadiness (stability)
stability
/stəˈbɪləti/
n.
Describing a person who is calm, reliable, and not easily upset, which makes others feel safe.
emotional steadiness
➕
/ɪˈmoʊʃənl ˈstɛdɪnəs/
n.
The quality of being calm, reliable, and not easily upset, especially in difficult situations.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
Our project mentor is known for her stability; even when problems arise, she remains calm and provides clear guidance.
Our project mentor is known for her stability; even when problems arise, she remains calm and provides clear guidance.
🔗 Collocations
emotional stability – Emotional stability is the ability to remain calm and balanced.
mental stability – Mental stability refers to a sound and healthy state of mind.
personal stability – Personal stability means being reliable and consistent in one's behavior.
🔄 Synonyms
composure (n.) – The state of being calm and in control of one's feelings.
poise (n.) – Graceful and controlled behavior in stressful situations.
reliability (n.) – The quality of being trustworthy and consistent.
🚫 Antonyms
instability (n.) – Lack of emotional or psychological stability.
volatility (n.) – Tendency to change moods quickly.
unpredictability (n.) – The quality of being difficult to foresee or depend on.
🌱 Derivatives
stabilize (v.) – To make stable.
stabilization (n.) – The process of becoming stable.
stable (adj.) – Having a steady and balanced state.
Wordbook
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