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Irreconcilable Meaning: Definition and Examples

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irreconcilable

[ˌɪrɪˈkɒnsɪləbəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

conflicting views

Irreconcilable refers to things that are impossible to reconcile or bring into harmony. It often describes opposing beliefs, views, or situations that cannot be made compatible or agreeable. This term is typically used in discussions of deep-seated disagreements or conflicts.

Synonyms

antagonistic, contradictory, incompatible, unreconcilable.

Examples of usage

  • Their irreconcilable differences led to a bitter divorce.
  • The two parties held irreconcilable views on the policy issue.
  • After years of negotiations, their positions remained irreconcilable.

Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal contexts, it often refers to disagreements between parties that cannot be resolved through mediation or negotiation.
  • It is commonly applied in family law, particularly in divorce cases, where irreconcilable differences lead to dissolution of marriage.
  • The phrase 'irreconcilable differences' is often used in court documents to describe the basis for a divorce.

Psychology

  • The term can describe deep-seated conflicts between personal beliefs and emotional experiences.
  • Such conflicts may lead to stress or mental health issues due to unresolved tensions.
  • Cognitive dissonance, a psychological phenomenon, occurs when a person holds contradictory ideas, often leading to feelings of frustration.

Pop Culture

  • Numerous films feature themes of irreconcilable relationships, often exploring love and conflict.
  • The concept appears in various songs, reflecting the emotional weight of unable-to-be-resolved relationships.
  • Popular TV shows frequently depict characters facing irreconcilable differences that lead to dramatic story arcs.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers sometimes discuss irreconcilable beliefs in the context of moral dilemmas and ethical controversies.
  • The clash of differing worldviews can lead to profound debates on truth and existence.
  • Epicureanism and Stoicism, for example, present irreconcilable views on pleasure and virtue.

Origin of 'irreconcilable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'reconciliare', which means 'to restore to friendship'.
  • The prefix 'ir-' indicates negation, so it literally means 'not able to be reconciled'.
  • It has been used in English since the late 16th century.

The term 'irreconcilable' originates from the prefix 'ir-', indicating negation, and the root word 'reconcilable', which derives from the Latin 'reconciliare'. The Latin term is formed from 're-' (again) and 'conciliare' (to bring together or reconcile). The use of 'irreconcilable' in English can be traced back to the late 14th century, where it began to take on its modern meaning in relation to conflicts or differences that cannot be reconciled. Throughout history, it has been used in various contexts, including politics, personal relationships, and philosophical debates, to describe an inability to reach agreement or understanding. The word has evolved to convey a sense of finality in disagreement, particularly when referring to fundamental values or ideologies.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,757, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.