Inviability Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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inviability

[ɪnˌvaɪəˈbɪləti ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

biology

The state or quality of not being able to survive or exist.

Synonyms

nonviability, unviability.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
inviability

This term is often used in biological or medical fields to describe a condition where something cannot live or survive, such as an organism or cells.

  • The experiment failed due to the inviability of the cell cultures.
  • Scientists are studying the factors that contribute to the inviability of certain species.
unviability

This term is mainly used in general or informal speech to describe something that is impractical or cannot succeed. It has a slightly negative connotation and is less formal than the other terms.

  • The unviability of the plan was obvious from the start.
  • After reviewing the project proposal, the team cited several reasons for its unviability.
nonviability

This is commonly used in business or project management contexts to describe a plan, idea, or project that cannot be successful or sustained. It can also be used in medical fields, similar to 'inviability'.

  • The nonviability of the startup became evident after six months due to lack of funding.
  • Doctors had to inform the patient about the nonviability of the pregnancy.

Examples of usage

  • The inviability of the organism in extreme conditions led to its extinction.
  • Genetic mutations can result in inviability of the offspring.
  • The inviability of the seeds in harsh environments limits the plant's distribution.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, inviability can refer to organisms that cannot survive in specific environments due to unfavorable conditions.
  • In ecology, populations identified as inviable may lack genetic diversity to adapt, leading to extinction.
  • Certain species are declared inviably extinct when their breeding population drops below sustainable levels.

Sociology

  • In social contexts, ideas may be termed inviability when they cannot be realistically implemented in practice.
  • Some economic theories outline policies deemed inviably impractical for certain communities, highlighting systemic failures.
  • Social movements may face challenges of invulnerability when lacking necessary resources or public support.

Psychology

  • In psychological contexts, feelings of inviability can lead to low self-esteem, suggesting a person believes they cannot succeed.
  • Some mental health disorders contribute to thoughts about inviability, affecting motivation and engagement in life activities.
  • Counselors often address the belief of personal inviability to help clients build resilience and self-worth.

Philosophy

  • Debates in philosophy may explore the concept of inviability in terms of ideas or arguments that lack logical consistency.
  • Ethical theories may label certain actions as inviably moral due to their negative consequences for society.
  • Philosophical discussions about life often question what it means for an existence to be viable or inviably ordinary.

Origin of 'inviability'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin root 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'viabilis' meaning 'able to live or thrive'.
  • The prefix 'in-' is often used to negate a word, signaling obstacles to growth or success.
  • The word first gained prominence in the late 20th century within scientific and academic discussions.

The word 'inviability' is derived from the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' and the word 'viability' meaning 'ability to survive or grow'. It is commonly used in biological contexts to describe the inability of an organism or species to survive under certain conditions.


See also: nonviability, unviable, viability.