unprofitable
UK: ʌnˈprɒfɪtəbl | US: ʌnˈprɑːfɪtəbl
adj. not yielding profit or financial gain
adj. (figuratively) not beneficial or worthwhile
unprofitable = un<not> + profit<gain> + able<capable of>
- un (prefix): From Old English "un-," meaning "not" or "opposite of."
- profit (root): From Latin "proficere" (to make progress, gain), via Old French "profit" (advantage, benefit).
- able (suffix): From Latin "-abilis," indicating capacity or suitability.
Etymology Origin:
The word "unprofitable" combines negation ("un-") with "profit," rooted in the Latin idea of advancement or gain. The suffix "-able" transforms it into an adjective meaning "incapable of yielding profit." Historically, "profit" shifted from general "benefit" to specifically financial gain in Middle English, while "un-" consistently negates the root's meaning.
The business venture proved unprofitable within its first year.
Critics argued the research was unprofitable and diverted resources from more pressing issues.
Despite their efforts, the farm remained unprofitable due to rising costs.
He abandoned the unprofitable side project to focus on his main career.
The company closed several unprofitable branches to cut losses.