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Irreparably Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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irreparably

[ɪˈrɛp(ə)rəbli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a way that cannot be repaired or fixed

Irreparably means in a way that cannot be repaired or fixed. When something is irreparably damaged, it is beyond the possibility of being restored or made whole again.

Synonyms

irredeemably, irreversibly, permanently.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
irreparably

Used when something is damaged in a way that cannot be fixed or repaired.

  • The ancient vase was irreparably shattered during the move.
  • Their relationship was irreparably damaged after the betrayal.
irreversibly

Used when something cannot be undone or reversed.

  • The company made an irreversibly strategic decision to shift to renewable energy.
  • The disease had progressed to a point where the damage was irreversibly extensive.
permanently

Used when something is done in a way that is intended to last forever.

  • She decided to settle permanently in the countryside.
  • The monument was erected to stand permanently as a reminder of history.
irredeemably

Used when something is beyond all hope of improvement, correction, or redemption, often carrying a negative connotation.

  • He was considered irredeemably corrupt after the scandal.
  • The book was so poorly written that it was deemed irredeemably bad.

Examples of usage

  • The relationship between them was irreparably damaged after the betrayal.
  • The fire irreparably destroyed the old building.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a way that causes permanent harm or damage

Irreparably also means in a way that causes permanent harm or damage. It implies a sense of lasting negative consequences that cannot be undone.

Synonyms

irredeemably, irreversibly, permanently.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
irreparably

Use this word when something is damaged or harmed in such a way that it cannot be fixed or made right again. This term often implies serious and long-lasting consequences.

  • The ancient vase was irreparably damaged after it fell from the shelf.
  • Their friendship was irreparably broken after the betrayal.
irredeemably

This word is used when referring to something that cannot be improved, corrected, or restored, often because it is morally or fundamentally flawed. It is frequently used in a negative context.

  • He was considered irredeemably corrupt by his peers.
  • The book was irredeemably dull and failed to capture any reader's interest.
permanently

This word is best used when something is intended to last or remain unchanged forever. It is neutral and can be used in both positive and negative contexts.

  • She decided to move to Australia permanently.
  • The ink from the pen stained the shirt permanently.
irreversibly

Use this word when describing a situation, condition, or change that cannot be undone or reversed. It suggests a permanent state of affairs.

  • Climate change is affecting the planet irreversibly.
  • His health deteriorated irreversibly after the accident.

Examples of usage

  • The scandal irreparably tarnished his reputation.
  • The decision to cut down the ancient trees irreparably altered the landscape.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • The feeling of something being irreparable can lead to grief or loss, as individuals grapple with the end of possibilities.
  • In relationships, when trust is broken irreparably, it can fundamentally change how people relate to each other.
  • Cognitive dissonance can occur when one believes something can still be repaired, yet evidence suggests otherwise.

Literature

  • The term often appears in literature to describe tragic circumstances or relationships that cannot be mended.
  • Famous works like 'The Great Gatsby' explore themes of irreparable damage to dreams and aspirations.
  • In poetry, it is used to evoke deep emotions about loss and the permanence of certain decisions.

Environment

  • Some environmental damages, such as species extinction, are often described as irreparable due to their long-lasting impacts.
  • The concept emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts to prevent changes that we cannot undo.
  • Pollution and climate change effects may lead to irreparable damage to ecosystems, sparking global concerns.

Technology

  • In technology, data loss can sometimes be described as irreparable if backups are not available.
  • Firmware or software errors may lead to irreparable damage in devices, emphasizing the need for proper updates and maintenance.
  • The rise of cybersecurity threats highlights the risk of irreparable harm to systems and user trust.

Origin of 'irreparably'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'irreparabilis', which means 'not able to be repaired'.
  • It combines the prefix 'ir-', meaning 'not', with 'reparabilis', meaning 'able to be repaired'.
  • First recorded use in English dates back to the early 17th century, showing how the concept has been recognized for centuries.

The word 'irreparably' is derived from the Latin word 'irreparabilis', which combines the prefix 'ir-' (meaning not) with 'reparabilis' (able to be repaired). It first appeared in English in the early 17th century. The concept of irreparability has been explored in various contexts, from relationships to environmental damage, highlighting the irreversible nature of certain actions.

See also: irreparable, repairable, repaired, repairer, repairing, repairman, repairs, reparation.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,590, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.