Unachievable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unachievable
[ˌʌnəˈtʃiːvəb(ə)l ]
Definitions
goal setting
Not capable of being attained or achieved; impossible to accomplish.
Synonyms
impossible, unattainable, unrealistic.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unachievable |
When something cannot be accomplished despite efforts, often due to external limitations or lack of resources.
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| impossible |
When something cannot happen or be done, often due to logical, physical, or fundamental constraints.
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| unattainable |
When a goal or desire is out of reach and cannot be gained, usually due to inherent limitations or circumstances.
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| unrealistic |
When an idea or expectation is not practical or feasible, often due to being overly optimistic or out of touch with reality.
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Examples of usage
- It was an unachievable task to finish the project in one day.
- The deadline was unachievable given the amount of work required.
expectations
Not able to be reached or accomplished; beyond one's capabilities.
Synonyms
unobtainable, unreachable, unrealizable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unachievable |
Used when referring to goals or objectives that cannot be accomplished, often due to complexity or high difficulty.
|
| unobtainable |
Similar to 'unattainable,' but often used to describe physical objects or resources that cannot be acquired.
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| unreachable |
Used to describe something that cannot be physically reached or contacted, often involving distance or barriers.
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| unrealizable |
Refers to ideas or plans that cannot be turned into reality, usually due to impracticality or inherent flaws.
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Examples of usage
- The expectations set by the manager were unachievable for the team.
- Her standards for perfection were unachievable for most people.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Setting goals perceived as 'unachievable' can lead to increased anxiety and decreased motivation among individuals.
- Psychological theories suggest that having attainable goals improves self-efficacy and resilience in facing challenges.
- Studies show that when people focus on 'unachievable' goals, they may experience feelings of failure, even if they progress towards other more attainable objectives.
Pop Culture
- In motivational speaking, the idea of achieving the 'unachievable' is often highlighted to inspire perseverance and push boundaries.
- Various movies depict characters striving for the unachievable, like reaching the stars or overcoming seemingly impossible odds, symbolizing the human spirit.
- The phrase 'the sky's the limit' plays into the theme of attempting the unachievable and can be found in numerous songs and motivational literature.
Literature
- In many classic novels, characters frequently grapple with unachievable aspirations, reflecting their inner struggles and societal pressures.
- The theme of the unattainable in literature often serves as a driving force for character development, allowing authors to explore deeper philosophies of life.
- Notable works, such as 'The Great Gatsby,' showcase the pursuit of dreams that are profoundly unachievable, providing commentary on societal values and norms.
Technology
- In tech, the term 'unachievable' can describe certain goals, such as creating completely autonomous AI that surpasses human intelligence.
- Startups often face the challenge of pitching revolutionary ideas that may seem unachievable, yet some succeed against the odds.
- Challenges labeled as unachievable in tech often stimulate innovation, as developers strive to turn the impossible into reality.
Origin of 'unachievable'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'unachievable' combines the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'achievable' derived from 'achieve,' which comes from the Old French 'achever,' meaning 'to complete.'
- The concept of achievement dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was often linked to personal success in tasks or goals.
- Adding 'un-' to words has been a common method in English to create opposites since the early formation of the language.
The word 'unachievable' is a combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the adjective 'achievable'. It first appeared in the English language in the mid-19th century. The concept of something being unachievable has been present throughout history, as people have always faced challenges that seem insurmountable. The word reflects the human experience of striving for goals that may be out of reach or beyond one's capabilities.
See also: achievable, achieved, achievement, achievements, achiever, achieving, overachiever, overachieving, unachieved, underachievement, underachiever.