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Unworkable: meaning, definitions and examples

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unworkable

 

[ˌʌnˈwɜːrkəbəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

infeasible

Not capable of being put into practice or successful.

Synonyms

impractical, unfeasible, unrealistic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unworkable

Use when describing a plan or idea that cannot be executed successfully due to practical limitations.

  • Their proposal for the new system was deemed unworkable because it required too many resources.
impractical

Used to highlight that a plan, idea, or method is not sensible or possible to implement, often due to unrealistic or less efficient processes.

  • Flying cars are an exciting concept, but they are currently impractical for everyday use.
unfeasible

Employed to underscore the impossibility of a plan or project due to current limitations, such as technology or resources.

  • Building a city on Mars is an exciting idea, but it's unfeasible with today's technology.
unrealistic

Best suited for describing expectations, goals, or plans that are not grounded in reality or are overly ambitious.

  • Expecting to finish the entire project in one day is completely unrealistic.

Examples of usage

  • It was clear that the proposed plan was unworkable due to budget constraints.
  • The idea of finishing the project within a week was unworkable.
Context #2 | Adjective

not functioning properly

Not working or able to be used effectively.

Synonyms

broken, defective, nonfunctional.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unworkable

Used to describe a plan, idea, or system that cannot be successfully carried out or implemented due to impracticality or inefficiency.

  • The new schedule is unworkable for most employees
  • Their proposal was deemed unworkable due to budget constraints
nonfunctional

Used for describing an object or system that does not operate or perform its intended function at all.

  • The printer is nonfunctional and needs to be repaired
  • Their plan for the party became nonfunctional after the venue cancellation
broken

Refers to something that is physically damaged and no longer functions as intended. Can also be used metaphorically to describe systems or relationships.

  • The vase is broken and can't hold water anymore
  • Their trust was broken after the betrayal
defective

Describes an object or product that has a flaw or imperfection, often from manufacturing, making it unusable or unsafe.

  • The manufacturer recalled the defective cars
  • The toy was defective and posed a choking hazard

Examples of usage

  • The old machinery became unworkable after years of neglect.
  • The computer program was unworkable after the latest update.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word combines 'un-' (a prefix meaning 'not') with 'workable', which dates back to the 14th century.
  • Its roots lie in Old English, where 'weorc' meant to do or perform, emphasizing the essence of functioning.
  • The term started appearing in English literature in the 20th century, reflecting modern challenges in various fields.

Science

  • In engineering, 'unworkable' solutions are often identified during brainstorming sessions, steering teams towards viable options.
  • Environmental science frequently addresses unworkable practices that harm ecosystems, guiding policies toward sustainability.
  • Psychological studies show that when faced with unworkable situations, humans often experience increased stress and frustration.

Pop Culture

  • In many films, a character might have an 'unworkable' plan that leads to humorous or dramatic consequences.
  • Reality TV often showcases 'unworkable' relationships, highlighting the struggle between individuals trying to make things work.
  • Music lyrics frequently touch on themes of 'unworkable' love, showcasing the emotional turmoil that arises from impossible situations.

Literature

  • Literary works often explore 'unworkable' dreams, illustrating characters’ desires that clash with reality, such as in dystopian fiction.
  • Authors use the concept to highlight societal issues, suggesting policies or ideologies that simply cannot function in practice.
  • Classic literature frequently features protagonists who devise 'unworkable' plans, leading to their eventual downfall or growth.

Psychology

  • Cognitive dissonance occurs when people realize an idea they believed in is deemed 'unworkable', causing mental conflict.
  • Therapy often helps individuals confront 'unworkable' beliefs, allowing them to adopt healthier, more attainable perspectives.
  • The 'unworkable' mindset can foster creativity, as people seek novel solutions when traditional methods fail.

Translations

Translations of the word "unworkable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inviável

🇮🇳 अव्यवहार्य

🇩🇪 unbrauchbar

🇮🇩 tidak dapat digunakan

🇺🇦 непрацездатний

🇵🇱 niewykonalny

🇯🇵 実行不可能

🇫🇷 impraticable

🇪🇸 inviable

🇹🇷 işe yaramaz

🇰🇷 실행 불가능한

🇸🇦 غير عملي

🇨🇿 neproveditelný

🇸🇰 neuskutočniteľný

🇨🇳 不可行

🇸🇮 neizvedljiv

🇮🇸 óvinnanlegt

🇰🇿 жұмыс істемейтін

🇬🇪 შეუძლებელი

🇦🇿 işləməyən

🇲🇽 inviable

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,398, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.