Immutable: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that cannot be changed or altered, often in a formal or technical context, such as software development, or scientific laws.

• The rules are immutable and must be followed.
• In Python, strings are immutable objects.

Commonly used to describe something that cannot be changed, often used in both casual and formal contexts.

• The past is unchangeable no matter how much we wish otherwise.
• The laws of physics are unchangeable.

Appropriate when referring to something that is firmly set, established, or unchanging, often used in everyday contexts like schedules or positions.

• We have a fixed schedule that we must adhere to.
• The prices are fixed and non-negotiable.

Best used in more formal or legal contexts to indicate that something cannot be changed or modified by any means.

• The contract terms are unalterable and must be respected by all parties.
• The decision of the committee is unalterable.

Use when referring to something that cannot be changed over time or under any circumstances, often used in a formal or technical context.

• Mathematical laws are immutable.
• In software development, an immutable object is one whose state cannot be modified after it is created.

Used when emphasizing that something cannot be altered or modified, but in a general sense rather than a formal or scientific context.

• Some things in life are unchangeable and must be accepted.
• His decision on the matter was unchangeable.

Best for describing something that does not vary or change in different situations, often related to measurements, routines, or natural laws.

• Her morning routine is invariable; she follows the same steps every day.
• The speed of light in a vacuum is an invariable constant.

Ideal for describing something that remains the same over time, often in an informal or everyday context.

• The old tree in the backyard stood unchanging through the seasons.
• His love for his hometown is unchanging.