Irreparable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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irreparable
[ɪˈrɛp(ə)rəb(ə)l ]
Definitions
damage
Impossible to rectify or repair.
Synonyms
irrecoverable, irremediable, irretrievable, irreversible.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| irreparable |
Used to describe damage or harm that cannot be fixed or restored. Often related to physical damage or significant personal harm.
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| irreversible |
Used to indicate a change or action that cannot be undone or reverted, frequently used in scientific, environmental, or medical contexts.
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| irremediable |
Refers to situations or conditions that cannot be corrected or improved, often used for health or social problems.
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| irretrievable |
Describes something that cannot be retrieved or recovered, typically used for data, memories, or opportunities.
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| irrecoverable |
Applied when something can't be recovered, typically in financial or resource contexts where a loss cannot be compensated.
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Examples of usage
- The damage to the ancient artifact was irreparable.
- The irreparable harm caused by the oil spill was devastating.
- Unfortunately, the consequences of his actions were irreparable.
- The irreparable damage to the environment was a result of years of neglect.
- She knew that the trust between them was irreparable.
relationship
Unable to be mended or restored.
Synonyms
irrecoverable, irremediable, irretrievable, irreversible.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| irreparable |
This is a duplicate; see the explanation above. |
| irreversible |
Used to describe actions or processes that cannot be undone or changed back to the original state.
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| irremediable |
Used to describe a situation or problem that cannot be corrected or fixed.
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| irretrievable |
Used when referring to something that cannot be recovered or brought back once lost.
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| irrecoverable |
Used when dealing with losses, especially financial or data, that cannot be regained.
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Examples of usage
- After the betrayal, their friendship was irreparable.
- The irreparable rift between the two siblings tore the family apart.
- The irreparable damage to their relationship was beyond repair.
- She realized that the damage to their trust was irreparable.
- The irreparable break in communication led to their separation.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Context
- In legal terms, 'irreparable harm' refers to damage that cannot be adequately compensated by monetary damages.
- Courts often grant injunctions to prevent actions that might cause irreparable harm, protecting individuals' rights.
- This concept is crucial in cases involving environmental damage, where the lost ecosystem may never be restored.
Psychology
- Psychologically, the idea of irreparable damage comes into play during trauma, where the impacts can last a lifetime.
- The loss of a loved one can lead to feelings of irreparable grief, affecting mental health and well-being.
- Therapists often work with clients to address feelings of hopelessness linked to irreparable issues.
Cultural References
- In literature, characters might face irreparable decisions that lead to life-changing consequences, emphasizing the weight of choices.
- Movies often depict relationships that suffer irreparable damage after betrayals, illustrating themes of trust and forgiveness.
- Popular songs often touch on themes of love lost irreparably, resonating with listeners who relate to heartbreak.
Environmental Issues
- Certain species of wildlife face extinction, leading to dire consequences for biodiversity that may become irreparable.
- Deforestation creates irreparable damage to ecosystems, impacting climate change, wildlife habitats, and human livelihoods.
- Pollution can lead to irreparable harm to waterways, affecting both nature and the communities that depend on them.
Origin of 'irreparable'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'irreparable' comes from the Latin word 'irreparabilis,' which means 'not able to be repaired.'
- It combines the prefix 'ir-' meaning 'not' with 'reparable,' derived from 'reparare,' which means 'to repair.'
- The word has been used in English since the early 17th century, reflecting serious damage that cannot be mended.
The word 'irreparable' comes from the Latin word 'irreparabilis', which is derived from the prefix 'ir-' (not) and 'reparabilis' (able to be repaired). The concept of irreparability has been present throughout history in different contexts, emphasizing the permanent nature of certain damages or losses that cannot be restored or fixed. The adjective 'irreparable' is often used to describe situations or things that are beyond repair or recovery, highlighting the finality and permanence of the damage or loss.
See also: irreparably, repairable, repaired, repairer, repairing, repairman, repairs, reparation.