Uncontrollable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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uncontrollable

[ˌʌnkənˈtroʊləbəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Unable to be restrained or controlled; wild, unruly, or unpredictable.

Synonyms

incontrollable, unmanageable, unrestrained.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
uncontrollable

Used to describe something or someone that cannot be controlled or restrained. Often used in medical, behavioral, or emotional contexts.

  • His uncontrollable anger worried his friends.
  • The disease spread at an uncontrollable rate.
unrestrained

Used to describe something or someone free of limits or control, often implying lack of self-control or excess. Can have a negative connotation.

  • Her unrestrained laughter filled the room.
  • The party descended into unrestrained chaos.
unmanageable

Used when referring to someone or something difficult to manage or handle, often in work or daily life contexts. It can have a negative connotation.

  • The workload has become unmanageable.
  • His unmanageable behavior got him in trouble at school.
incontrollable

A less common synonym of 'uncontrollable'. Used in similar contexts but may sound more formal or old-fashioned.

  • The crowd's excitement was incontrollable.
  • The fire became incontrollable within minutes.

Examples of usage

  • His uncontrollable anger often led to arguments with his colleagues.
  • The fire spread uncontrollably through the dry forest.
  • She felt an uncontrollable urge to laugh at the serious situation.
Context #2 | Adjective

emotion

Overwhelming or overpowering, unable to be managed or suppressed.

Synonyms

irrepressible, overwhelming, unstoppable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
uncontrollable

Use when describing something that cannot be controlled or managed, often referring to emotions or actions.

  • Her anger was uncontrollable after she heard the news.
  • The wildfire spread with uncontrollable speed.
irrepressible

Use when referring to emotions, enthusiasm, or energy that cannot be held back or restrained; often has a positive connotation.

  • The child's irrepressible laughter filled the room.
  • He had an irrepressible enthusiasm for life.
overwhelming

Use when describing something that is so powerful or intense that it is difficult to handle or resist; can be both positive or negative depending on context.

  • The support from her friends was overwhelming.
  • She felt an overwhelming sense of guilt.
unstoppable

Use when referring to a force, action, or person that cannot be stopped or prevented, often in a positive and determined sense.

  • The team's determination made them unstoppable.
  • Her ambition was unstoppable.

Examples of usage

  • She was consumed by uncontrollable grief after the loss of her pet.
  • The uncontrollable joy she felt upon receiving the good news was evident in her smile.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Emotional outbursts that can be classified as 'uncontrollable' often stem from stress or overwhelming situations.
  • Research shows that individuals may develop coping strategies to deal with uncontrollable feelings, such as mindfulness or deep breathing.

Culture

  • In films and literature, characters described as uncontrollable often symbolize freedom or chaos, leading to dramatic storylines.
  • Social movements sometimes arise from groups feeling that they have become an uncontrollable force for change, demonstrating collective passion.

Science

  • Certain natural phenomena, like hurricanes or wildfires, can be described as uncontrollable due to their unpredictability and power.
  • Research in behavioral science explores how uncontrollable variables can affect decision-making and risk assessment.

Literature

  • The theme of uncontrollable desires is common in classic literature, portraying how such impulses can lead to tragedy, as seen in works like 'The Great Gatsby'.
  • Many poems use 'uncontrollable' emotions to convey deep human experiences, emphasizing the struggle between desire and restraint.

Origin of 'uncontrollable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'controllable', relating to the ability to manage or direct something.
  • It first appeared in the English language in the 19th century, reflecting the growing complexity of emotions and behaviors at that time.

The word 'uncontrollable' originated from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'controllable'. The concept of something being uncontrollable has been present throughout human history, as the struggle to manage or restrain certain aspects of life is a universal theme. The word embodies the idea of chaos, lack of restraint, and the unpredictable nature of some phenomena.


See also: control, controlability, controllability, controllable, controlled, controlledly, controller, controllers, controlling, controls, incontrollable, uncontrollability, uncontrollably, uncontrolled.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,832, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.