# unregulated

/ənˈɹɛɡjəˌɫeɪtɪd/ (US) · /ˌʌnɹˈɛɡjuːlˌeɪtɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unregulated
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

not controlled or limited by any official rules or laws. You use this to describe businesses or activities that operate without government oversight.

For teachers: not controlled or supervised by a set of rules, laws, or a governing body. Often used in economic or legal contexts to describe markets or activities lacking official oversight.

## Examples

- The unregulated market can be very risky for new investors.
- Many experts worry that unregulated social media platforms allow harmful misinformation to spread without any consequences.
- The rapid growth of unregulated shadow banking systems has raised concerns among international regulators regarding the potential for a systemic financial collapse similar to previous crises.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun; often carries a negative connotation of being unsafe or chaotic.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.