Unstable vs. volatile: what’s the difference?
The short answer
While unstable generally refers to a lack of stability, leading to unpredictability in various contexts (e.g. emotional, physical, political), volatile often implies a tendency to change in a dramatic or explosive manner, frequently used in chemical or financial contexts.
What they have in common
Both unstable and volatile describe conditions or situations that are prone to change, often quickly or unpredictably.
Examples
unstable
- The bridge was deemed unstable after the storm.
- His financial situation was very unstable.
- The patient’s condition remains unstable.
volatile
- The stock market is particularly volatile this year.
- She has a volatile temper that can flare up unexpectedly.
- Gasoline is a volatile substance.
Which one is more common?
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