Inconceivability: meaning, definitions and examples

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inconceivability

[ɪnkənˌsiːvəˈbɪlɪti ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in philosophy

The quality of being inconceivable or unimaginable; the inability to be grasped by the mind. It is often used to describe ideas or concepts that are beyond human comprehension.

Synonyms

incomprehensibility, unconceivability, unimaginableness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
inconceivability	This word is often used to describe something that is impossible to imagine or understand due to its complexity or strangeness. The inconceivability of traveling to another galaxy within our lifetime makes it a topic for science fiction rather than science fact
unimaginableness	This term is best used to describe something so extraordinary or extreme that it defies imagination. The unimaginable richness of the king’s treasures was beyond anyone’s comprehension
unconceivability	This word, similar to 'inconceivability,' refers to something that cannot be imagined or grasped mentally; however, it can be considered slightly more formal or archaic. The unconceivability of the concept left the entire audience in stunned silence
incomprehensibility	This term is suitable for situations where something is difficult or impossible to understand, often because of its complexity, ambiguity, or confusion. The incomprehensibility of the legal document required the advice of a lawyer to fully understand its implications

Examples of usage

The inconceivability of infinity is a common topic in philosophy.
The inconceivability of the universe's origin raises questions about the limits of human understanding.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in a scientific context

The state of being impossible to conceive or understand based on current scientific knowledge. It is often used to describe phenomena that defy explanation or logic.

Synonyms

inexplicability, mystery, unfathomableness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
inconceivability	Used when something is beyond comprehension or impossible to imagine. The inconceivability of the universe's size leaves many people in awe. The inconceivability of her actions shocked everyone.
inexplicability	Used when something cannot be explained or understood. The inexplicability of the phenomenon puzzled scientists for years. Despite numerous attempts, the inexplicability of the event remained.
unfathomableness	Used when something is too deep or complex to be comprehended, often used in a more philosophical or literary context. The unfathomableness of the human mind fascinates psychologists. The unfathomableness of the ocean's depths is both terrifying and intriguing.
mystery	Used to describe something that is unknown or difficult to understand. The sudden disappearance of the ship remains a mystery. Life's greatest mystery is what happens after death.

Examples of usage

The inconceivability of time travel challenges our understanding of physics.
The inconceivability of parallel universes has sparked debate among scientists.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'inconcipibilis', which combines 'in-' (not) and 'concipere' (to grasp or conceive).
The first known use of 'inconceivability' in English dates back to the late 14th century.
It reflects the evolution of language, showcasing how meanings can expand over centuries.

Philosophy

Philosophers have long debated the nature of reality and existence, often discussing concepts that seem inconceivable.
Some argue that the idea of inconceivability is paradoxical because if something is truly inconceivable, it shouldn't exist in our thoughts at all.
Kant's philosophy suggested that certain things, like the universe's infinity, challenge human comprehension and highlight our limitations.

Science

Quantum mechanics introduces phenomena that are often deemed inconceivable, like particles being in multiple states at once.
The vastness of the universe, with its billions of galaxies, poses questions about existence that can seem inconceivable to many.
Inconceivable theories in science often push the boundaries of our understanding, leading to breakthroughs in knowledge.

Literature

Many authors use the theme of inconceivability to challenge characters and plotlines, pushing them into surreal situations.
Notable works like 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' present inconceivable worlds that provoke thought about reality and perception.
The acceptance of the inconceivable has inspired countless fantasy and science fiction tales, inviting readers to imagine the unimaginable.

Culture

In art, the concept of the inconceivable can be reflected in abstract works that defy logical interpretation.
Cultural beliefs can lead to the inconceivable, where myths and legends convey ideas beyond rational understanding.
Certain rituals might seem inconceivable to outsiders, yet they hold significant meaning within their cultural contexts.

Translations

Translations of the word "inconceivability" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inconcebibilidade

🇮🇳 अकल्पनीयता

🇩🇪 Unvorstellbarkeit

🇮🇩 ketidakmungkinan

🇺🇦 немислимость

🇵🇱 niewyobrażalność

🇯🇵 考えられないこと

🇫🇷 inconcevabilité

🇪🇸 inconcebibilidad

🇹🇷 akıl almazlık

🇰🇷 상상할 수 없음

🇸🇦 استحالة التصور

🇨🇿 nepředstavitelnost

🇸🇰 nepredstaviteľnosť

🇨🇳 难以想象

🇸🇮 nepredstavljivost

🇮🇸 óhugsanleiki

🇰🇿 ойға сыймайтындық

🇬🇪 გაურკვევლობა

🇦🇿 ağlasığmazlıq

🇲🇽 inconcebibilidad