Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/dɪsˈsɜːvɪsəbl/

Definitions

1. (adjective) Capable of causing harm or disadvantage; likely to disserve.
2. (adjective) Able to do a disservice; unhelpful or harmful in effect.

Usage Examples

• His disserviceable attitude toward the team’s efforts only created more problems.
• The disserviceable actions of some members led to the failure of the project.
• Her disserviceable remarks about the company harmed its public image.

Etymology

The word "disserviceable" combines the prefix "dis-" (indicating negation or opposition) with "serviceable" (meaning useful or able to serve). The term originated in the mid-17th century, evolving from the idea of something that was capable of causing harm instead of providing assistance or benefit.

Synonyms

• Harmful
• Detrimental
• Unhelpful
• Injurious
• Disadvantageous

Antonyms

• Beneficial
• Helpful
• Advantageous
• Supportive
• Constructive

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In various dialects of English, the pronunciation of "disserviceable" may vary slightly. In American English, the stress tends to be more even, while in British English, the second syllable is more prominently stressed.

Historical Usage

The term "disserviceable" appeared in English during the late 16th century, deriving from the combination of "dis-" and "serviceable." It has always carried the connotation of being capable of causing harm or disadvantage, often used in legal or formal contexts when describing actions or attitudes that undermine or harm an intended positive effect.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the idea of being disserviceable goes beyond just a personal failure and is seen as an ethical lapse. Actions deemed disserviceable can harm not just individuals but entire communities, organizations, or societies, especially when the person in question is in a position of influence or responsibility. The term is often invoked in discussions of corporate ethics, politics, and social justice.

More Information

"Disserviceable" highlights the potential to cause harm, often unintentionally. While "serviceable" means capable of being useful or helpful, "disserviceable" turns this on its head, emphasizing the harm that can arise from actions that might otherwise seem neutral or intended to assist. Understanding this word's usage is crucial for recognizing when actions, whether in personal relationships or professional environments, are inadvertently causing harm rather than providing help.