Inevitable: meaning, definitions and examples

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inevitable

 

[ ɪˈnɛvɪtəb(ə)l ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

in life

Certain to happen; unavoidable.

Synonyms

certain, inescapable, unavoidable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
inevitable

Used when something is bound to happen and cannot be prevented. Often has a slightly negative connotation, implying something undesirable will happen.

  • The collapse of the company was inevitable due to its poor management.
  • Change is inevitable in any organization.
unavoidable

Used when something cannot be avoided or escaped from. Similar to 'inevitable' but can be slightly more neutral or practical.

  • The meeting was unavoidable despite the busy schedule.
  • Traffic at this hour is unavoidable.
inescapable

Used to describe a situation or outcome that cannot be avoided or escaped from. Often has a strong, somewhat dramatic connotation.

  • The consequences of his actions were inescapable.
  • The feeling of loneliness was inescapable despite being surrounded by people.
certain

Used to indicate complete assurance or confidence about something happening. It can be positive or neutral, depending on context.

  • It is certain that she will succeed given her dedication and hard work.
  • We are certain that the event will start on time.

Examples of usage

  • It was inevitable that the sun would set.
  • Death is inevitable for all living creatures.
  • Change is inevitable in this constantly evolving world.
Context #2 | Noun

in a situation

A situation that is certain to happen; unavoidable.

Synonyms

certainty, consequence, inevitability.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
inevitable

Use this word to describe something that is certain to happen and cannot be avoided.

  • "Death is inevitable
  • " "After the major scandal, his resignation was inevitable
  • "
certainty

Use this word to express the state of being sure or convinced about something.

  • "The certainty of her success was obvious to everyone
  • " "There is no certainty in the outcome of the game
  • "
inevitability

Use this word to emphasize the quality of being unavoidable. It is often used in more formal or abstract discussions.

  • "The inevitability of technological advancement shapes our future
  • " "He spoke about the inevitability of change in the organization
  • "
consequence

This word is used to refer to an outcome or result, typically one that is a direct result of an action or situation. It can have a neutral or negative connotation.

  • "Every decision has its consequence
  • " "The consequence of not studying was failing the exam
  • "

Examples of usage

  • Failure seemed like an inevitable after the series of mistakes.
  • He saw the breakup as an inevitable.

Translations

Translations of the word "inevitable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inevitável

🇮🇳 अपरिहार्य

🇩🇪 unvermeidlich

🇮🇩 tidak terelakkan

🇺🇦 неминучий

🇵🇱 nieunikniony

🇯🇵 避けられない (sakerarenai)

🇫🇷 inévitable

🇪🇸 inevitable

🇹🇷 kaçınılmaz

🇰🇷 불가피한 (bulgapihan)

🇸🇦 حتمي (ḥatmī)

🇨🇿 nevyhnutelný

🇸🇰 nevyhnutný

🇨🇳 不可避免的 (bù kě bì miǎn de)

🇸🇮 neizogiben

🇮🇸 óhjákvæmilegur

🇰🇿 болдырмау

🇬🇪 აუცილებელი (autsilebeli)

🇦🇿 qaçılmaz

🇲🇽 inevitable

Etymology

The word 'inevitable' comes from the Latin word 'inevitablem' meaning 'unavoidable'. It has been used in the English language since the mid-14th century. The concept of inevitability has been explored in various philosophical and literary works throughout history, highlighting the idea of fate and predestination.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,966, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.