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Insoluble Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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insoluble

[ɪnˈsɒljʊb(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

chemistry

Not able to be dissolved in a particular solvent.

Synonyms

indissoluble, undissolvable, unmeltable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
insoluble

Use same context and examples as the first instance of 'insoluble'.
undissolvable

Describing a substance that cannot be dissolved, often used in a scientific or technical context.

  • This material is undissolvable in most chemicals.
  • Despite many tests, the compound remained undissolvable.
indissoluble

When describing something that cannot be broken, dissolved, or separated, often used in a formal or philosophical context to describe relationships, contracts, or bonds.

  • The marriage vow is considered indissoluble in many cultures.
  • Their friendship formed an indissoluble bond.
unmeltable

When something cannot be melted, usually in reference to materials or substances that retain their form under high temperatures.

  • The metal alloy proved to be unmeltable in standard furnaces.
  • These rocks are practically unmeltable with the equipment we have.

Examples of usage

  • This substance is insoluble in water.
  • The insoluble residue was filtered off.
Context #2 | Adjective

problem

Unable to be solved or explained.

Synonyms

irresolvable, unresolvable, unsolvable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
insoluble

Primarily used in scientific contexts to describe a substance that cannot be dissolved in a solvent, usually water.

  • Salt is soluble in water, but oil is insoluble.
unresolvable

Very similar to 'irresolvable'; often used interchangeably to describe situations or problems that cannot be solved.

  • Their disagreements were unresolvable, causing a permanent rift between them.
unsolvable

Used to describe a problem or puzzle that cannot be solved. Often used informally and in a wide range of contexts.

  • This math problem seems unsolvable without a calculator.
irresolvable

Used to describe a problem, conflict, or situation that cannot be solved or settled.

  • The differences between the two parties were irresolvable, leading to a breakdown in negotiations.

Examples of usage

  • The mystery remained insoluble for years.
  • The conflict seemed insoluble at the time.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Many oils and fats are considered insoluble in water because they do not mix.
  • Insoluble substances can form a suspension, where particles remain dispersed in a liquid without dissolving.
  • Certain minerals, like quartz, are naturally insoluble in water, impacting geological formations.

Literature

  • Insoluble riddles and puzzles often serve as metaphors in literature for complex problems with no clear solutions.
  • Classical literature sometimes uses the concept of insoluble issues to highlight characters’ struggles against fate.

Everyday Life

  • While cooking, you may encounter insoluble ingredients like certain spices that don't fully dissolve in liquids.
  • Insoluble fiber is important in a diet, helping with digestion despite not breaking down in the stomach.

History

  • Historical chemists faced many insoluble compounds, leading to discoveries in separation techniques.
  • The quest to dissolve certain stubborn materials has advanced material science and contributed to various technological innovations.

Origin of 'insoluble'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'insolubilis', meaning 'not able to be dissolved'.
  • The prefix 'in-' indicates negation, contrasting with 'soluble', which means 'able to dissolve'.

The word insoluble originated from the Latin word 'insolubilis', which is a combination of the prefix 'in-' (not) and 'solvō' (I loosen or solve). The term first appeared in English in the 15th century. Over time, it has been used in various contexts to describe things that cannot be dissolved, solved, or explained.

See also: solubility, solubilization, solubleness.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,900 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.