Irrefragable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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irrefragable

[ɪˈrɛfrədʒəbəl ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in a debate

Impossible to refute or dispute; incontrovertible; undeniable.

Synonyms

incontrovertible, indisputable, unassailable, undeniable, unquestionable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
irrefragable	This word is very formal and is used mainly in academic or legal contexts to describe something that cannot be refuted or disproved. The evidence presented in the research was irrefragable
incontrovertible	This term is used when something is so clear and obvious that it cannot be denied or disputed. It's suitable for both formal and semi-formal contexts. The video footage served as incontrovertible proof of his innocence
undeniable	Common in everyday conversation, it refers to something that is so evident that no one can deny it. It doesn't carry a heavy formal tone. The success of the event was undeniable, with everyone praising the organizers
indisputable	Appropriate for everyday use, it refers to something that is clearly factual and cannot be questioned. It's an indisputable fact that the Earth revolves around the Sun
unassailable	Often used to describe a position or argument that is so strong that it cannot be attacked or defeated, this word can be used in various contexts including debates and competitive environments. Her logic was unassailable, leaving her opponents speechless
unquestionable	Used to describe something that cannot be doubted, often in contexts where credibility and trust are key. Her dedication to the project was unquestionable

Examples of usage

It was an irrefragable argument that left everyone speechless.
His logic was so clear and concise that his conclusion was irrefragable.
The evidence presented was irrefragable, leaving no room for doubt.
The witness's testimony was irrefragable, making it impossible to question its validity.
The facts presented were irrefragable, making it impossible to argue against them.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

In philosophy, the term is often used to describe arguments or truths that are universally accepted and cannot be challenged.
The concept plays a crucial role in constructing logical frameworks where certain premises are accepted as fundamental truths.
Philosophical debates often reference irrefragable truths to support their conclusions, emphasizing their objective nature.

Law

In legal contexts, an irrefragable piece of evidence cannot be countered or disputed, often leading to swift decisions in court.
Judicial rulings can be based on irrefragable evidence, underscoring the importance of solid proof in law.
The principle ensures that certain testimonies or documents hold significant weight during legal proceedings.

Literature

In poetry and prose, authors use the term to convey ultimate truths or undeniable experiences often reflecting human nature.
Famous works sometimes explore themes that are portrayed as irrefragable, emphasizing the depth of human emotion and thought.
Characters in literature might refer to irrefragable beliefs that shape their motivations and conflicts throughout the narrative.

Science

Scientific laws are often described as irrefragable due to their repeated verification and acceptance within the scientific community.
For example, the laws of physics are considered irrefragable until new evidence or theories challenge them.
The evolution of scientific understanding highlights how some truths were once considered irrefragable but later revised.

Origin of 'irrefragable'

Main points about word origin

The term comes from the Latin 'irrefragabilis', from 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'refragari' meaning 'to oppose'.
Its first known use in English dates back to the early 17th century, showcasing the evolution of language over time.
The components 'ir-' and 'refragable' show how languages borrow and adapt terms from one another continuously.

The word 'irrefragable' originated from the Latin word 'irrefragabilis,' which means 'not to be broken or refuted.' It entered the English language in the early 17th century and has been used primarily in formal or academic contexts to describe arguments or evidence that are impossible to dispute. Over the years, 'irrefragable' has maintained its status as a powerful and sophisticated term to convey the idea of undeniable truth or evidence.