Unsatisfactory: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes

Meaning 1：not good enough (unsatisfactory)

unsatisfactory 🔊

/ˌʌnsætɪsˈfæktəri/

adj.

It means something is not good enough or acceptable; it fails to meet the required standards or expectations.

Unsatisfactory meaning illustrated by a disappointed student holding a failed test paper.

not good enough 🔊

➕

/nɒt ɡʊd ɪˈnʌf/

adj.

Describing something that fails to meet the required standards or expectations.

📁 Category：School Education 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Prefix 'un-' (not) + 'satisfactory' (from Latin 'satis' enough + 'facere' to make).

💡 Mnemonic

Un-satisfactory: if it's not satisfactory, it's unsatisfactory.

📖 Example

The teacher told me my project was unsatisfactory because I didn't include enough research data. 🔊 The teacher informed me that my project did not meet the standards due to insufficient research data.

🔗 Collocations

unsatisfactory performance – performance that is below the expected level

unsatisfactory result – a result that fails to meet the requirements

unsatisfactory condition – a condition that is not acceptable or adequate

🔄 Synonyms

inadequate (adj.) – not sufficient or acceptable in quality or quantity

substandard (adj.) – below the usual or required standard

unacceptable (adj.) – not satisfactory or allowable

🚫 Antonyms

satisfactory (adj.) – fulfilling expectations or requirements

acceptable (adj.) – able to be agreed on; suitable or adequate

adequate (adj.) – sufficient for a specific need

🌱 Derivatives

unsatisfactorily (adv.) – in an unsatisfactory manner

unsatisfactoriness (n.) – the quality or state of being unsatisfactory

📖 Cultural Story

Originated in 17th century English from 'un-' (negative prefix) and 'satisfactory'. Frequently used in academic grading, business reports, and product reviews to indicate failure to meet required standards.