Meaning & Definition of word "Unprofitable"
to
Unprofitable
/ʌnˈprɒfɪtəbl/
adjective:
- 1. Not producing profit; resulting in loss or no financial gain.
- Example: The company's unprofitable ventures ultimately led to significant layoffs.
- 2. Not advantageous; not beneficial in terms of outcomes or results.
- Example: Investing in that unprofitable market was a decision the board regretted.
- 3. Failing to yield a positive return or financial benefit.
- Example: After reviewing the project's expenses, they concluded it was unprofitable in the long run.
Etymology
from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'profitable' stemming from the Middle French 'profitablie'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
a losing proposition:
a situation that is not likely to result in any benefit or success
throwing good money after bad:
to continue investing in a losing situation
running at a loss:
operating in a way that results in financial losses
Related Words
profit:
financial gain made in a transaction
loss:
the amount of money lost in a business transaction
investment:
the action or process of investing money for profit
Slang Meanings of unprofitable
Meaning: loser
Example Sentence: That business was a total loser – it was completely unprofitable.
Meaning: sinking ship
Example Sentence: Investing in that project felt like boarding a sinking ship.