Unthinkable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐คฏ
unthinkable
[สnหฮธษชลkษb(ษ)l ]
Definitions
inconceivable
Impossible to imagine or consider.
Synonyms
impossible, inconceivable, unimaginable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unthinkable |
Use 'unthinkable' when something is so shocking or unacceptable that it cannot even be considered. This word often has a strong emotional impact.
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| unimaginable |
Use 'unimaginable' to describe something that is far beyond what one can think or imagine. It hints at something vastly superior or inferior to the usual expectations.
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| inconceivable |
Use 'inconceivable' when something is beyond oneโs ability to believe or imagine. It emphasizes the sheer unlikelihood or surprise element.
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| impossible |
Use 'impossible' when something cannot be done or achieved no matter the circumstances. It is often used for tasks with no feasible solution.
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Examples of usage
- It is unthinkable to me that he could have been involved in such a crime.
- The idea of leaving her child alone in the house is unthinkable to her.
unacceptable
Too bad or shocking to be thought of or considered acceptable.
Synonyms
outrageous, shocking, unacceptable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unthinkable |
Same as the first entry โ used to describe something so unimaginable or unlikely that it cannot be considered realistically. Can be used repeatedly for emphasis.
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| outrageous |
This word is suitable for situations or actions that strongly shock or offend due to their extreme nature. It often implies a sense of incredulity and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
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| unacceptable |
Appropriate for cases where something does not meet a standard or is considered intolerable. Often used in professional or formal settings to describe inadequate or improper behavior or actions.
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| shocking |
Best used when describing something that causes a strong emotional reaction, especially surprise, horror, or dismay. Can be utilized in everyday situations as well as more serious contexts.
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Examples of usage
- It is unthinkable that such a thing could happen in our community.
- The idea of not helping those in need is unthinkable to me.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Human brains can struggle to process information that contradicts deeply held beliefs, making those ideas 'unthinkable.'
- Experiencing trauma can lead people to encounter thoughts or events that are too painful or bizarre to contemplate.
- Cognitive dissonance occurs when confronted with the unthinkable, as individuals work to reconcile conflicting ideas.
Literature
- In many dystopian novels, characters often face 'unthinkable' choices that challenge their morality and humanity.
- The concept serves as a powerful theme in horror stories, where unimaginable horrors become a reality for characters.
- Classic literature often explores 'unthinkable' ideas, like the nature of evil in works such as Shakespeare's 'Macbeth.'
Pop Culture
- The term often appears in movies and TV shows to describe shocking plot twists that leave audiences stunned.
- It has been used in song lyrics to highlight emotions tied to devastating experiences or societal issues.
- Reality shows sometimes feature 'unthinkable' challenges, pushing contestants beyond their limits to create dramatic tension.
Science
- Scientific advancements often uncover 'unthinkable' phenomena, challenging our understanding of the universe.
- The concept of black holes was once deemed unthinkable until physicists began to understand their existence.
- In environmental discussions, the effects of climate change are often described as 'unthinkable,' emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and action.
Origin of 'unthinkable'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the prefix 'un-', which means 'not,' and 'thinkable,' meaning 'able to be thought about.'
- It was first recorded in English texts in the late 19th century, reflecting the complexities of human thought and perception.
- This term's usage has evolved to often describe events or ideas that challenge societal norms.
The word 'unthinkable' originated from the combination of 'un-' (meaning not) and 'thinkable' (able to be considered or imagined). It first appeared in the English language in the early 18th century. Over time, 'unthinkable' has become widely used to describe things that are impossible to imagine or consider.
See also: outthink, overthink, overthinking, rethink, rethinking, think, thinker, thinkers, thinking, thought, unthinkability, unthinkableness, unthinkably, unthinking, unthinkingly.