# unsteadily

**Pronunciation:** /ʌnˈstedɪli/ · un-STED-ih-lee

**CEFR level:** B1

**Part of speech:** adverb

## Meaning

In a way that shows a lack of balance or control, often due to weakness, drunkenness, or nervousness.

## Examples

- The old bridge swayed unsteadily in the strong wind.
- She spoke unsteadily, her voice trembling with emotion.
- The toddler took his first unsteadily steps across the room.

## Synonyms

- wobblily — Moves with a slight side-to-side motion.
- precariously — In a way that is dangerous and might lead to an accident.
- unsteadily — Lacking firm balance or control.
- rickety — Describes things that are old and likely to collapse.

## Antonyms

- steadily — In a controlled, regular, and balanced way.
- firmly — With strength and stability.

## Common patterns

- unsteadily on — Describing movement on a surface or object. — The hiker walked unsteadily on the narrow mountain path.
- move unsteadily — To change position with a lack of balance. — The injured animal moved unsteadily away from the danger.

## Collocations

- walk unsteadily — He had to walk unsteadily after twisting his ankle.
- sway unsteadily — The tall building swayed unsteadily during the earthquake.
- speak unsteadily — She could only speak unsteadily due to her fear.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/unsteadily

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