state of instability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "state of instability" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or condition characterized by uncertainty or lack of stability, often in contexts such as politics, economics, or personal circumstances. Example: "The region has been in a state of instability since the recent political upheaval, leading to widespread unrest."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

A lot of business deals are being rushed through at the moment while the country is in a state of instability.

The Guardian

"Certain political parties could resort to violence and masquerade as terrorist organizations," he said, "to maintain the state of instability in Nineveh Province".

The New York Times

The pope urged public officials to protect Egypt's image, which he said was suffering from a general state of instability and lawlessness.

The New York Times

But in the world of Middle Eastern politics — a world that now includes Syria in flames, Egypt in chaos, and even Jordan in a state of instability — the prospects are dim for anything other than an increasingly volatile status quo.

The New Yorker

The long sentence moves from the idea of finding oneself in a state of instability, being taken in by one's parents, being comforted, and then returning to a certain stability, but it also evokes a person who has an acute sense of beauty — perhaps an artist.

The New Yorker

The combination of a repressive regime, armed opposition groups and terrorist activities has left the country in a constant state of instability and chaos.

Journal of International Humanitarian Action

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

But state-capture theory showed that economies can enter a long-term state of stable instability.

The New Yorker

While all the time the banks were pulling the world into a state of financial instability.

The Guardian

The state of permanent instability, in turn, was the ultimate instrument of control, which sapped the energies and attention of all.

The New Yorker

The soccer riot and its aftermath prove "that security in the country is in a state of grave instability," a Brotherhood spokesman, Mahmoud Ghuzlan, said.

The New York Times

The spread of terrorism, extremism, conflicts rooted in ethnic and religious tensions, poverty, corruption and the state of constant instability in the Middle East made me choose to move out of that part of the world for a while, and I was among the people who made the perilous journey to Europe during 2015.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "state of instability" to describe conditions that are not merely unstable but have reached a definable condition of lacking stability.

Common error

Avoid using "state of instability" as a general term for any uncertain situation. Instead, reserve it for scenarios where the lack of stability is a defining characteristic and has significant consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "state of instability" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies a specific condition characterized by a lack of stability, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "state of instability" is a noun phrase used to describe conditions lacking equilibrium, often in political, economic, or personal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not exceedingly common, the phrase appears in reliable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, indicating its acceptance in formal writing. When using this phrase, ensure specificity to the context, such as "political state of instability", and avoid vagueness for maximum impact. Consider alternatives like "unstable situation" or "precarious condition" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unstable situation

Focuses on the situational aspect rather than the condition.

precarious condition

Highlights the risk and uncertainty of the situation.

period of turbulence

Emphasizes the chaotic and disruptive nature of the instability.

time of uncertainty

Focuses on the lack of predictability and clarity.

disordered state

Highlights the lack of order and structure.

volatile environment

Describes the rapidly changing and unpredictable nature.

condition of turmoil

Emphasizes the state of great commotion and confusion.

lack of equilibrium

Stresses the absence of balance and stability.

era of upheaval

Highlights a period marked by significant change and disruption.

time of flux

Focuses on continuous change and transition.

FAQs

What is a situation that can be described as a "state of instability"?

A "state of instability" typically describes a situation characterized by unpredictability, uncertainty, and a lack of equilibrium. This can apply to political climates, economic conditions, or even personal circumstances.

How can I use "state of instability" in a sentence?

You might say, "The country has been in a "state of instability" since the coup," or "His personal life was in a "state of instability" following the divorce."

What are some alternative ways to express the idea of a "state of instability"?

Depending on the specific context, you could use phrases like "unstable situation", "precarious condition", or "period of turbulence".

What's the difference between "state of unrest" and "state of instability"?

"State of unrest" generally refers to social or political agitation and dissatisfaction, while ""state of instability"" refers to a more general condition of lacking equilibrium or predictability, which can encompass unrest but also economic or environmental factors.