Irretrievably: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe situations where something cannot be recovered or undone. Often used in emotional or serious contexts.

• The documents were irretrievably lost in the fire.
• Their relationship was irretrievably damaged after the betrayal.

Used to describe something that is intended to last indefinitely. Common in everyday contexts.

• She has permanently moved to Canada.
• This marker is designed to write permanently on surfaces.

Used to refer to situations or changes that cannot be undone. Often used in scientific, environmental, or medical contexts.

• Climate change is causing irreversible damage to our planet.
• The surgery will irreversibly alter her appearance.

Used when something is damaged or harmed beyond repair. Commonly used in physical damage or severe emotional context.

• The vase was irreparably shattered into tiny pieces.
• They were irreparably broken-hearted after the incident.

This word, being an exact duplicate of the first entry, shares the same context involving loss or damage that can never be recovered or fixed.

• The classic manuscript was irretrievably damaged in the fire.
• The evidence was irretrievably destroyed.

This phrase is used when something is damaged so badly that fixing it is impossible. It's often used for physical objects but can also apply to relationships or situations.

• The car was beyond repair after the accident.
• Their friendship was beyond repair after the huge argument.

This word is used when there is no hope or chance of improvement in a situation. It has a more emotional tone and can refer to feelings and states, not just physical conditions. It can also be used negatively to convey despair.

• He was hopelessly in love with her despite knowing she didn’t feel the same.
• They were hopelessly lost in the dense forest.

This word is best for situations where something is intended to last forever or for an indefinite long duration. It indicates a state that will not change.

• She moved to Europe permanently.
• The scar on his face will remain permanently.