Unutterability: meaning, definitions and examples
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unutterability
[ ʌnˈʌtərəˌbɪlɪti ]
state of being
Unutterability refers to the quality or state of being unutterable, meaning that something is beyond expression in words or cannot be articulated adequately. It often describes emotions, experiences, or concepts that are too complex or profound for verbal communication.
Synonyms
ineffability, ineffable nature, unspeakableness.
Examples of usage
- The unutterability of her grief left her speechless.
- In literature, the unutterability of certain feelings can enhance the emotional impact.
- He struggled with the unutterability of his thoughts during the intense moment.
Etymology
The term 'unutterability' is derived from the prefix 'un-' which signifies negation, combined with 'utter', a verb that originates from the Old French word 'outre', meaning 'to put forth or express'. The suffix '-ability' indicates a quality or state. The concept has roots in discussions surrounding the ineffable, particularly in philosophical and theological contexts, where certain truths or experiences are deemed impossible to convey through language. The progression into the English language can be traced through various literary works, emphasizing the profound feelings that humans experience which go beyond the capabilities of spoken word. This word frequently appears in poetry and literature, reflecting the struggles of writers to capture the depths of human emotion and experience.