unverlässlich

Unverlässlich is a rarely used or nonstandard spelling of the German adjective meaning not reliable. In standard German, the negation of reliable forms is typically written unverlässlich or unzuverlässlich. The spelling unverlässlich is generally regarded as incorrect in formal writing and is not listed as a standard variant in most dictionaries. It may appear in informal contexts or as a misspelling.

Linguistic notes provide two common standard forms for the negation. One is unverlässlich, derived from zuverlässig or verlässlich, and the other is unzuverlässlich, derived from zuverlässig. The appearance of unverlässlich is usually explained as a mistaken blend of these two standard patterns, or as a regional or historical variation. In modern usage, speakers and writers are expected to choose unverlässlich or unzuverlässlich rather than unverlässlich.

Usage considerations include nuance and frequency. Unzuverlässlich is the more widely used term in everyday language, while unverlässlich can carry a slightly stronger sense of inconsistency or unreliability in behavior or statements. Unverlässlich, when encountered, is typically interpreted as a nonstandard or erroneous form rather than a deliberate stylistic choice.

Examples:

- Die Quelle ist unzuverlässlich. (correct)

- Die Aussagen waren unverlässlich. (correct)

- Die Angaben waren unverlässlich. (generally considered nonstandard or incorrect)

See also: Zuverlässlichkeit, Verlässlichkeit, Unzuverlässlichkeit, Verlässlichkeit.