Inexorable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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inexorable

[ɪˈnɛksərəb(ə)l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

unstoppable force

Impossible to stop or prevent; relentless.

Synonyms

inevitable, relentless, unstoppable, unstoppable, unyielding.

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Word Description / Examples
inexorable

Describes a process or force that cannot be stopped or altered even if desired. Often used in a slightly dramatic or poetic sense.

  • The inexorable march of time spares no one.
  • Despite their pleas, the inexorable fate could not be changed.
relentless

Describes something persistent in intensity or pressure over a long period. Often carries a sense of harshness or severity.

  • The relentless heat of the desert was unbearable.
  • She faced relentless criticism for her decision.
unstoppable

Refers to a force or entity that cannot be stopped. Often used to describe someone or something that is highly successful or powerful.

  • Their team's momentum this season has been unstoppable.
  • She is an unstoppable force in the industry.
inevitable

Used to indicate that something is certain to happen and cannot be avoided. Commonly used in everyday language.

  • Death is an inevitable part of life.
  • Given the storm, the delay was inevitable.
unyielding

Highlights a stubbornness or firmness in attitude, position, or form. Can have a negative connotation if implying stubbornness.

  • He remained unyielding in his opinions despite the evidence.
  • The unyielding barrier stood firm against the wind.

Examples of usage

  • The inexorable march of time.
  • The inexorable rise of technology.
  • The company faced the inexorable decline of profits.
  • The disease spread with inexorable speed.
  • The inexorable truth is that everything changes.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, characters often face inexorable forces, like fate or destiny, that change the course of their lives despite their struggles.
  • Famous works, such as 'Macbeth' and 'The Odyssey', explore themes of inexorability through their plot developments and character arcs.

Philosophy

  • Philosophically, the concept of inevitability is often discussed in relation to concepts like fate and free will.
  • Inexorable events challenge our understanding of choice, suggesting that sometimes, outcomes are beyond our control.

Science

  • Inexorable processes can be observed in natural sciences, such as the laws of thermodynamics that govern energy transfer and cannot be altered.
  • Biological evolution represents an inexorable change over time, driven by natural selection and genetic mutations.

History

  • Historical events like wars or revolutions often unfold in an inexorable manner, leading to significant societal changes that cannot be avoided.
  • The inevitability of certain historical patterns, like the rise and fall of empires, illustrates the inexorable march of time and circumstance.

Origin of 'inexorable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'inexorabilis', where 'in-' means 'not' and 'exorabilis' means 'able to be persuaded'.
  • It was first used in English in the late 15th century and has kept its original meaning related to being unchangeable.

The word 'inexorable' originated from the Latin word 'inexorabilis', which means 'unyielding' or 'relentless'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. The prefix 'in-' signifies 'not' or 'opposite of', while 'exorabilis' comes from 'exorare', meaning 'to entreat'. Therefore, 'inexorable' conveys the idea of something that cannot be persuaded or changed, that is relentless and inevitable.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,876, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.