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Unanswerable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unanswerable

[ʌnˈænsərəbəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

unable to answer

The term 'unanswerable' refers to a question or problem that cannot be answered or resolved, often due to its complexity or the lack of information available. This can occur in various contexts, such as philosophical debates, legal inquiries, or even personal dilemmas. In some cases, it suggests that the question itself may be flawed or based on incorrect premises, leading to a conclusion that no satisfactory answer exists. 'Unanswerable' can also denote situations where an answer is inherently subjective or beyond human understanding.

Synonyms

incomprehensible, insoluble, unanalyzable.

Examples of usage

  • The dilemma presented was truly unanswerable.
  • Some philosophical questions are simply unanswerable.
  • He posed an unanswerable question during the debate.
  • Many mysteries of the universe remain unanswerable.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • Philosophers often grapple with unanswerable questions, such as the meaning of life, which encourages deep thinking.
  • Socratic questioning frequently leads to unanswerable scenarios meant to challenge and expand understanding.

Psychology

  • Unanswerable questions can cause frustration or anxiety, as they challenge the need for understanding and closure.
  • People may cope with the existence of such questions by accepting uncertainty, a key aspect of emotional resilience.

Literature

  • Many literary works explore themes of unanswerable questions, prompting readers to ponder complex moral dilemmas and societal norms.
  • Poets often use unanswerable queries to evoke emotion, creating a sense of mystery or intrigue that captivates readers.

Science

  • In scientific inquiry, unanswerable questions can highlight the limits of current knowledge and encourage further exploration.
  • Concepts like dark matter and the origins of the universe pose challenges that remain largely unanswerable with today’s technology.

Origin of 'unanswerable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the combination of 'un-', meaning 'not', and 'answerable', which relates to being able to respond.
  • Its first known use dates back to the early 1800s, reflecting the growing complexity of questions in philosophy and science.

The word 'unanswerable' is formed by the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'answerable', which itself derives from 'answer', combining 'an' (Old English 'andswaru') and 'swara' (to speak). The prefix 'un-' has been used in the English language since the early Middle Ages to create negations. 'Answerable' appeared in Middle English as 'answerable', borrowed from the Old French 'answerable', which is composed of 'answer' and the suffix '-able', indicating capability or suitability. Therefore, 'unanswerable' essentially denotes something that cannot be adequately responded to or for which a satisfactory response cannot be given. This term became more commonly utilized especially as complex questions in philosophy and science emerged, emphasizing the limitations of human knowledge.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,636, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.