Incurable: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when talking about diseases or conditions that cannot be cured completely, no matter what treatment is applied. It often carries a negative connotation.

• The patient was diagnosed with an incurable illness
• Despite his efforts, the disease remained incurable

This word is used when a problem or condition is difficult to manage or solve. It is often used in medical contexts but can also be applied to social or technical issues.

• The patient had intractable pain that did not respond to any treatment
• The city's traffic congestion has become an intractable problem

Chronic is used to describe diseases or conditions that last for a long time and are often persistent or recurring. It is often used in a medical context.

• She suffers from chronic back pain
• Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management

Irremediable is used to describe problems or conditions that cannot be repaired or corrected. It often has a formal tone and a negative connotation.

• The damage to his reputation was irremediable
• The collapse of the building left irremediable damage