Irreversible: meaning, definitions and examples
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irreversible
[ɪˈrɛvərsəbl ]
Definitions
chemical reaction
Not capable of being reversed, undone, or altered.
Synonyms
irreparable, irrevocable, permanent.
Examples of usage
- The chemical reaction is irreversible, once it has occurred it cannot be undone.
- The irreversible process led to a permanent change in the substance.
decision
Impossible to change, reverse, or recover.
Synonyms
final, irreparable, irrevocable.
Examples of usage
- His decision to quit his job was irreversible; he couldn't take it back.
- The irreversible consequences of his actions became apparent too late.
health condition
Not able to be reversed or recovered; incurable.
Synonyms
incurable, irremediable, permanent.
Examples of usage
- The damage to his lungs was irreversible and would worsen over time.
- The irreversible effects of the disease left him with a permanent disability.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word combines the prefix 'ir-', meaning 'not', with 'reversible', which comes from Latin roots meaning 'to turn back'.
- The use of 'irreversible' in English traces back to the late 18th century, significantly shaping discussions in science and philosophy.
Science
- In thermodynamics, certain reactions are labeled irreversible because they result in a net increase in entropy, meaning they cannot spontaneously revert.
- Chemical processes like rusting or cooking an egg are excellent examples of irreversible changes where the starting material cannot be recovered.
Psychology
- In behavioral psychology, some decisions are considered irreversible due to the impact they have on an individual's mindset and future choices.
- The concept of irreversible emotions highlights how certain experiences can permanently alter one's emotional state.
Environment
- Habitat destruction can lead to irreversible damage to ecosystems, making recovery of native species and habitats nearly impossible.
- Climate change effects, such as species extinction and melting ice caps, represent irreversible shifts that challenge future generations.
Art
- Certain art techniques, like watercolor, often yield irreversible changes once the paint dries, as it can't be effectively altered afterward.
- In performance art, mistakes can lead to irreversible moments that shape the direction of the piece and impact the audience's experience.
Translations
Translations of the word "irreversible" in other languages:
🇵🇹 irreversível
🇮🇳 अप्रतिवर्तनीय
🇩🇪 irreversibel
🇮🇩 tidak dapat diubah
🇺🇦 незворотний
🇵🇱 nieodwracalny
🇯🇵 不可逆
🇫🇷 irréversible
🇪🇸 irreversible
🇹🇷 geri döndürülemez
🇰🇷 되돌릴 수 없는
🇸🇦 غير قابل للعكس
🇨🇿 nevratný
🇸🇰 nevratný
🇨🇳 不可逆的
🇸🇮 nepovraten
🇮🇸 óafturkræfur
🇰🇿 қайтарылмайтын
🇬🇪 უუბრალოდ
🇦🇿 geri dönməz
🇲🇽 irreversible