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Incompatible Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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incompatible

[ˌɪnkəmˈpætəbl̟ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

incompatible with

Not able to exist or work together because of basic differences.

Synonyms

conflicting, contradictory, incongruous, inharmonious.

Examples of usage

  • These two chemicals are incompatible with each other.
  • His stubbornness is incompatible with her easygoing nature.
  • Their goals are incompatible, so they decided to part ways.
Context #2 | Adjective

incompatible software

Not able to be used together because of differences in technology.

Synonyms

infeasible, inoperable, unusable.

Examples of usage

  • This program is incompatible with your operating system.
  • The new update is incompatible with the older version of the app.
Context #3 | Noun

incompatibility

The quality or state of being incompatible.

Synonyms

conflict, discord, discrepancy, disharmony.

Examples of usage

  • There was a clear incompatibility between their beliefs.
  • The incompatibility of their personalities led to constant arguments.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In software, incompatible programs can cause glitches or crashes, as they are not designed to work together.
  • Different operating systems may have incompatible file formats, preventing files from being opened on another system.
  • Compatibility is crucial in hardware; for example, not all computer parts can work seamlessly together.

Psychology

  • In relationships, incompatible personalities can lead to misunderstandings and conflict, affecting emotional well-being.
  • Cognitive dissonance arises when beliefs and actions are incompatible, causing stress and discomfort.
  • People often seek compatibility in friendships and partnerships to foster harmony and connection.

Culture

  • Incompatibility can be found in cultural practices, where differing customs may clash, leading to social tension.
  • Literature often explores themes of incompatible love, such as classic tales where societal norms impede romance.
  • Incompatible lifestyles can create barriers in communities, influencing social cohesion and interactions.

Science

  • In chemistry, certain substances are incompatible, meaning they react negatively when combined, such as acids and bases.
  • Biological incompatibility can occur in ecosystems; invasive species can disrupt existing species due to their contrasting needs.
  • Genetic incompatibility can prevent species from mating successfully, maintaining diversity in biological populations.

Origin of 'incompatible'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from Latin ‘incompatibilis’, where 'in-' means 'not' and 'compatibilis' means 'able to be together'.
  • It entered English usage in the early 19th century, reflecting the complexities of relationships and systems.
  • The prefix 'in-' is often used to negate terms in English, creating contrasting meanings to the original word.

The word 'incompatible' has its roots in the Latin word 'incompatibilis', which is a combination of the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'compatibilis' meaning 'compatible'. The concept of things being incompatible has been around for centuries, with the word taking on its current usage in the English language around the 15th century. In modern usage, 'incompatible' is commonly used in various contexts to describe things that cannot coexist or work together due to differences.

See also: incompatibility.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,086 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.