Impossible Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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impossible
[ɪmˈpɒsɪbl ]
Definitions
to achieve or do something that has never been done before
Something that is impossible cannot be achieved or done, usually because it is too difficult or because there is not enough time.
Synonyms
unachievable, unattainable, undoable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| impossible |
Best used when describing something that cannot happen or be done under any circumstances.
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| unachievable |
Use this when referring to goals or aspirations that cannot be reached or accomplished.
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| unattainable |
Typically used when talking about something that cannot be obtained or reached, often over a long period of time.
|
| undoable |
Applied when discussing tasks or activities that cannot be performed or completed. Often used in practical or everyday scenarios.
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Examples of usage
- It's impossible to predict the future.
- Winning the lottery twice is virtually impossible.
- She faced an impossible task of finishing the project in one day.
something that cannot exist or be done according to the laws of nature
Something that is impossible cannot exist or be done according to the laws of nature, and therefore it is not possible.
Synonyms
inconceivable, unimaginable, unthinkable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| impossible |
Describes something that cannot happen or be done.
|
| inconceivable |
Refers to something that is beyond imagination or belief due to sheer improbability or extremity.
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| unthinkable |
Implies something that is so shocking or unacceptable that it should not even be considered.
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| unimaginable |
Used to talk about something that is so extreme or extraordinary that it's difficult to even think about.
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Examples of usage
- It's impossible for humans to live on Mars without significant technological advancements.
- The idea of time travel is often considered impossible based on our current understanding of physics.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- The belief in impossibility can hinder personal ambition, as mindset plays a significant role in motivation.
- Research suggests that perceiving a task as impossible can lead to feelings of helplessness and decreased performance.
- Setting 'impossible' goals can sometimes spur creativity, leading to innovative solutions as people strive to overcome perceived limits.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'nothing is impossible' is frequently used in motivational speeches, inspiring people to overcome challenges.
- Movies like 'The Impossible' delve into extraordinary true stories, showcasing resilience in the face of what seems unachievable.
- The famous quote 'The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today' links to the idea of breaking through impossible barriers.
Science
- In physics, certain phenomena were once deemed impossible until new theories and technologies proved them feasible.
- The concept of time travel was considered impossible based on Moore's Law until theoretical physics began to explore it.
- Biological research has shown that what was thought impossible in gene editing has become a reality with CRISPR technology.
Literature
- Many literary heroes face seemingly impossible tasks, like Hercules with his twelve labors, showcasing themes of determination.
- In 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland', Alice argues about reality, suggesting that impossible things can happen if we believe.
- The phrase 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times...' from 'A Tale of Two Cities' captures paradoxes that feel impossible to reconcile.
Origin of 'impossible'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'impossibilis', combining 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'posse' meaning 'to be able'.
- It entered Middle English through Old French in the late 14th century, initially used in literary contexts.
- It originally referred to something that was unattainable, reinforcing the idea of limits.
The word 'impossible' originated from the Latin word 'impossibilis,' which is a combination of 'im-' (meaning 'not') and 'possibilis' (meaning 'possible'). The concept of impossibility has been explored in various philosophical and scientific contexts throughout history, with thinkers such as Aristotle and Descartes discussing the limits of what is possible. The notion of impossibility continues to be a topic of interest in fields such as physics, mathematics, and philosophy.
See also: impossibility, impossibly, possibility.