Irreplaceable: meaning, definitions and examples

Use to describe something so unique that no substitute or replacement can be found.

• Her grandmother's necklace is irreplaceable; it has been in the family for generations.
• The original manuscript is irreplaceable and kept in a secure vault.

Refers to something extremely useful or valuable beyond measure, yet not necessarily implying it cannot be replaced.

• His advice was invaluable during the company's crisis.
• The research provided invaluable insights into climate change.

Best used to talk about something absolutely necessary or essential for a particular purpose.

• Water is indispensable for all forms of life.
• Her expertise in the field makes her an indispensable member of the team.

Used for something damaged beyond the ability to fix or repair, often implying a sense of loss.

• The hurricane caused irreparable damage to the coastal town.
• Their friendship suffered an irreparable rift after the incident.

Use when something or someone cannot be replaced because of its unique value or significance. Often used to describe people or objects with deep emotional or personal importance.

• Her grandmother's necklace is irreplaceable.
• He has been an irreplaceable member of our team.

Use when something has such high value that it cannot be quantified in monetary terms, often implying emotional or unique worth.

• The look on his face was priceless when he saw the surprise.
• The ancient artifact is priceless due to its historical significance.

Use when something cannot be recovered, usually referring to lost or wasted resources, time, or opportunities.

• The data on the hard drive is irrecoverable.
• The damage caused by the fire is irrecoverable.

Use when something cannot be fixed or corrected, often implying a sense of finality and hopelessness. This word carries a negative connotation.

• The pollution in the river has reached an irremediable level.
• Her relationship with her father is now irremediable.