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Impracticable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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impracticable

[ɪmˈpræktɪkəbl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

infeasible

Not capable of being put into practice; not feasible or possible to do.

Synonyms

impossible, unattainable, unworkable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
impracticable

When referring to something that cannot be done with the current methods or means, often due to logistical or physical constraints.

  • Building a tunnel under the ocean with the current technology is impracticable
impossible

When describing something that cannot happen or be done under any circumstances.

  • It's impossible to travel faster than the speed of light
unworkable

When referring to a plan or idea that cannot be put into practice effectively, often because of flaws or impracticalities.

  • The proposed system is unworkable due to its complexity and high maintenance requirements
unattainable

Describing something that cannot be reached or achieved, often in a more abstract sense such as dreams or goals.

  • For many people, absolute perfection is an unattainable ideal

Examples of usage

  • The plan to build a bridge in that location is impracticable due to the high costs involved.
  • Given the limited resources, the idea of hosting a grand event seems impracticable.
Context #2 | Adjective

unworkable

Not capable of being carried out or put into practice effectively.

Synonyms

impossible, infeasible, unviable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
impracticable

This is best used for referring to something that is realistically too difficult, complex, or inconvenient to execute, but not necessarily outright impossible.

  • Building a bridge in that location is impracticable due to the unstable ground conditions
infeasible

This word is appropriate when describing a plan or approach that cannot be carried out effectively or within practical means.

  • Constructing a skyscraper with only recycled materials is currently infeasible
impossible

This is used for something that absolutely cannot be done, regardless of circumstances.

  • It is impossible for humans to breathe underwater without specialized equipment
unviable

This word is used when referring to something that cannot sustain itself or is not capable of working successfully, often used in economic or biological contexts.

  • The business model is unviable without substantial changes

Examples of usage

  • The proposed solution to the problem proved to be impracticable in real-world conditions.
  • The design was deemed impracticable due to safety concerns.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science & Engineering

  • In engineering, designs labeled as impracticable often fail to meet safety standards or are too expensive to implement.
  • Scientific proposals can also be deemed impracticable if they lack the necessary technology or resources to materialize.

Law and Policy

  • Legal arguments can be considered impracticable when they aren't realistic or don't adhere to established laws.
  • Policies proposed in government may be impracticable if they can't be realistically applied or funded.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, a character's impracticable plan often leads to comedic or disastrous outcomes, illustrating that some ideas are better left unexplored.
  • Books featuring impossible quests or challenges often highlight impracticable goals as central themes.

Psychology

  • Cognitive dissonance can occur when someone holds onto impracticable beliefs, leading to stress when confronted with reality.
  • Hope in impracticable ideas can be a coping mechanism, allowing individuals to escape from their current situations.

Origin of 'impracticable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the late Middle English term 'impracticable,' which combines 'im-' (meaning not) with 'practicable,' meaning doable.
  • Its early use can be traced back to the 15th century, where it described ideas that couldn't be put into practice.

The word 'impracticable' originated in the late 16th century from the prefix 'im-' meaning 'not' and the word 'practicable' meaning 'able to be done'. It has been used in English literature and formal writing to denote something that is not feasible or possible to achieve.

See also: malpractice, malpractices, practicable, practiced, practices, practitioner, unpracticed.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,705 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.