Unobtainable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ซ
unobtainable
[หสnษbหteษชnษbษl ]
Definitions
inaccessible
Not able to be obtained or reached; out of reach; impossible to achieve.
Synonyms
impossible, inaccessible, out of reach.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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unobtainable |
Use when something cannot be obtained or acquired, often due to external factors or limitations.
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inaccessible |
Use when something cannot be reached or entered, often due to physical barriers or lack of access.
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impossible |
Use when something cannot happen under any circumstances, suggesting it defies logic or natural laws.
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out of reach |
Use when something is physically or figuratively beyond one's grasp, often implying that it's not achievable despite efforts.
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Examples of usage
- It seemed like her dream of becoming a famous singer was unobtainable.
- Their goal of winning the championship felt unobtainable after the star player got injured.
unrealistic
Not realistic or practical; not within the realm of possibility.
Synonyms
impractical, unachievable, unrealistic.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
unobtainable |
Use this word when something cannot be acquired or reached, often because it is beyond one's reach or is rare.
|
unrealistic |
Use this word when something is not reasonable or realistic to expect, often because it is too idealistic or far-fetched.
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impractical |
Use this word when something is not sensible or feasible to do, often because it doesn't work well in real-life situations or is too complicated.
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unachievable |
Use this word when something cannot be accomplished or reached, often because it is too difficult or impossible with the current means or abilities.
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Examples of usage
- Their demands for a 50% raise were deemed unobtainable by the company.
- The deadline they set for the project was unobtainable given the scope of work.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- The concept of the unobtainable is a recurring theme in many classic works, symbolizing unattainable love or goals.
- In Shakespeareโs works, characters often long for what is beyond their reach, illustrating the human condition of desire.
Psychology
- The unobtainable can create a sense of longing, which often leads to stronger motivation to achieve or possess something.
- In therapy, exploring feelings about unobtainable desires can help individuals understand their goals and motivations better.
Economics
- In economic terms, items deemed unobtainable can lead to scarcity, driving demand and increasing their perceived value.
- The concept of 'opportunity cost' relates closely to unobtainable resources, highlighting what is sacrificed when pursuing limited options.
Cultural References
- In popular culture, the term often appears in songs and films where characters express yearning for something just out of reach.
- Films like 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind' explore the pain of love that feels unobtainable, resonating with many viewers.
Origin of 'unobtainable'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not', and 'obtain', which has roots in the Latin word 'obtinere', meaning 'to hold'.
- 'Obtainable' dates back to the early 19th century, while 'unobtainable' formally joined the language shortly after to denote things that are out of reach.
The word 'unobtainable' originated from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'obtainable' meaning 'able to be obtained'. The concept of something being unobtainable has been present throughout history, often associated with unreachable goals or unrealistic expectations.
See also: obtain, obtainable, obtained, obtaining, unobtainably, unobtained.
Word Frequency Rank
At rank #25,190, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.
- ...
- 25187 ashy
- 25188 incoherence
- 25189 revitalized
- 25190 unobtainable
- 25191 shrugging
- 25192 marshalling
- 25193 screeched
- ...