Unresolvable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unresolvable

[ʌnrɪˈzɒlvəb(ə)l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

problem solving

Not able to be resolved or solved; impossible to settle or find a solution.

Synonyms

insoluble, irresolvable, unsolvable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unresolvable

Use when describing a problem, issue, or situation that cannot be resolved or fixed.

  • The conflict between the two parties was unresolvable despite several negotiation attempts
unsolvable

Commonly used in everyday language when discussing problems, puzzles, or situations that cannot be solved.

  • The math problem seemed unsolvable for most students
  • After hours of trying, they concluded that the puzzle was unsolvable
insoluble

Typically used in scientific or philosophical contexts, especially when referring to substances or abstract problems that cannot be solved.

  • The chemical compound is insoluble in water
  • The mystery of the universe remains an insoluble question
irresolvable

Often used in more formal contexts to describe dilemmas, contradictions, or conflicts that cannot be resolved.

  • There is an irresolvable contradiction in their argument
  • The ethical dilemma proved to be irresolvable

Examples of usage

  • The conflict between the two countries was unresolvable.
  • The issue was unresolvable due to lack of communication.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • Philosophers often discuss issues deemed unresolvable, leading to debates that might never reach a conclusion.
  • Topics like the nature of existence or the definition of good and evil are frequently seen as unresolvable questions in philosophical circles.

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, certain equations can be classified as unresolvable if there is no solution within real numbers.
  • The term appears in discussions around problems like the 'Halting Problem,' which proves some questions cannot be definitively answered.

Conflict Resolution

  • In mediation, some conflicts are deemed unresolvable when parties cannot reach an agreement, often due to deep-rooted differences.
  • An unresolvable conflict can lead to ongoing tension and emotional distress, affecting relationships and communication.

Pop Culture

  • Many stories and movies feature dilemmas that are unresolvable, leaving audiences to ponder the outcomes long after the credits roll.
  • The popular series 'Lost' included several unresolvable mysteries that sparked debates among fans about their meanings.

Origin of 'unresolvable'

Main points about word origin

  • The prefix 'un-' means 'not,' so 'unresolvable' directly means 'not able to be solved.'
  • The root 'resolve' comes from Latin 'solvere,' which means 'to loosen or free,' suggesting resolution is about finding freedom from problems.

The word 'unresolvable' is derived from the verb 'resolve', which comes from the Latin 'resolvere', meaning 'to loosen, release, or resolve'. The prefix 'un-' is added to indicate the negation or reversal of the root word. The term has been in use since the late 19th century.