Impassible Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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impassible
[ɪmˈpæsəbl ]
Definition
road condition
Impassible refers to something that cannot be passed through or traversed. It is often used to describe roads or paths that are blocked or obstructed by physical barriers, making travel or movement impossible.
Synonyms
blocked, impenetrable, unpassable.
Examples of usage
- The storm rendered the roads impassible for days.
- After the landslide, the mountain pass became completely impassible.
- The heavy snow made the trail impassible for hikers.
- Flooding can make many streets impassible during the rainy season.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- In classic literature, impassible landscapes often symbolize emotional barriers characters must overcome.
- Famous poets use descriptions of impassible terrains to evoke feelings of isolation or insurmountable challenges.
- Joseph Conrad's works often feature impassible jungles, representing the barriers of civilization and understanding.
Science
- In physics, impassible barriers relate to concepts like impermeable materials that cannot be penetrated by substances.
- Impassible zones can also refer to regions in theoretical physics where certain conditions make passage impossible.
- In ecology, impassible obstacles for animals can lead to population fragmentation, impacting species survival.
Psychology
- People may use the term 'impassible' metaphorically to describe emotional obstacles that seem unconquerable.
- Understanding the feeling of something being impassible can help in therapeutic settings to address mental barriers.
- Certain cognitive theories suggest that perceived impassibility can lead to feelings of helplessness in individuals.
Pop Culture
- In adventure films, characters often face impassible terrains, enhancing the tension and challenges they must overcome.
- Popular video games feature impassible areas that players must find ways around, representing challenges and puzzles.
- The term also appears in music and art to symbolize struggles, barriers, and the turmoil of life's journey.
Origin of 'impassible'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'impassibilis', where 'in-' means not and 'passibilis' means able to be passed.
- 'Impassible' has been used in English since the 15th century to describe things that are unmovable or inaccessible.
- It is often confused with 'impassive', which refers to showing no emotion, highlighting the importance of context.
The word 'impassible' comes from the Middle French term 'impassible,' which is derived from the Latin 'impassibilis.' This Latin term is a combination of the prefix 'im-', meaning 'not,' and 'passibilis,' meaning 'able to be passed.' The evolution of the term reflects its application in describing things that block passage or are incapable of being traversed. 'Impassible' has been part of the English lexicon since the late 15th century, initially used in contexts related to obstacles and barriers. Its usage has remained consistent, particularly in describing roads or areas that are inaccessible due to various forms of obstruction.